Updated September 11, 2023

Travel advisories all over the world have changed since 2020 due to the pandemic. Currently, the US State Department has divided up its Mexico travel advisory by state. Destination Mexico City is currently at Level 2, “exercise increased caution” due to crime. The State Department advises this increased caution outside of tourist areas, especially at night, while remembering that crime can occur anywhere in the city. The CDC lists Mexico at Level 3 as of August 2022, indicating a high level of COVID-19 in the country; however, this can change frequently and you can check the current level anytime on the CDC website.

Here's what you need to know about safety in Mexico City, during normal times: 

Mexico City has historically had a low travel advisory 

A frequently asked question about Mexico City travel concerns safety. So, is Mexico City safe? Generally, yes. 

How can we be so sure? Before the pandemic, the US State Department gave the country of Mexico the same travel advisory level as France, the UK, and Germany—all four were given a “Level 2” rating. The region of Mexico City also had a Level 2 rating—which simply means that visitors should “exercise caution” (you know, as you should in any big city).

Earlier in the pandemic, the State Department gave 140 countries, including Mexico, a Level 4 rating (Do Not Travel) because of COVID risks. However, this risk has decreased and Mexico is no longer listed as “Do Not Travel.”

Pro tip: Alongside a good safety rating, Mexico City is also extremely accessible. There are tons of cheap flights to Mexico City, most people don’t need a visa to visit, and there’s really no bad time to go.

Travel to Mexico City is safe and easy

Mexico City is safe. Of course, visitors should exercise the same precautions as they would in any bustling metropolis (like Paris, London, New York, etc.)—Uber when it’s time to go home, avoid low-traffic areas, and stay sharp.

Anyone who’s planning to travel to Mexico City should also be aware that while petty crimes do occur in areas popular with tourists, most violent crimes are gang-related and take place far, far outside of frequented areas.

And most popular neighborhoods are super safe

There are tons of incredible neighborhoods in Mexico City, from hipster favorites like Roma and Condesa to the bustling Centro Historico. And different as these areas might be, they all have something in common: they’re all super safe (even for Mexico City solo travelers).

Again, most crime—especially violent crime—occurs far away from anywhere a traveler would conceivably end up (in neighborhoods like Tepito, Doctores, or Iztapalapa).

Most of Mexico City’s most popular attractions are located in the neighborhoods you’d already want to stay in anyway, so there’s no need to wander too far from the main drag. And even if you’re looking for non-touristy things to do in Mexico City, the likelihood of you entering these neighborhoods is still slim-to-none.

Still nervous about staying safe in Mexico City? Follow these tips:

Although Mexico City is safe, we do have some Mexico City travel tips for staying out of harm’s way:

• Don’t carry a lot of cash: Since Mexico City prices are generally advantageous to foreigners, you will want to use cash instead of your card (psst—withdraw pesos at the airport, at ATMs within banks, or at your hotel, not from street kiosks). But don’t carry tons of cash—just what you need. And be discreet about it.
• Buy bottled water: Any Mexico City travel guide will tell you—water in Mexico City is not safe to drink. Buy bottles of water instead. They’re cheap!
• Use Uber at night: With so many things to see in Mexico City, you’ll constantly be on the move. Although the metro is an easy way to travel during the day, it’s better to opt for an Uber at night. In any case, avoid the taxis.

Our travel advisory for Mexico City? Travel smart.

Here’s our verdict: Take the same precautions you would in any big city, and you’ll be fine. Mexico City is full of amazing things to do, whether you’re looking to track down the city’s best landmarks, or simply trying to track down the best tacos.