Mexico City to Teotihuacan: A Complete Visitor’s Guide

Wondering how to get from Mexico City to Teotihuacan? You came to the right place!

During a six-week stay in Mexico City (aka: CDMX), I visited this sprawling archeological site with my family and a few friends.

Among our group, some traveled by car and others by public transit. So I have all the essentials you’ll need to see this famous ruin site!

Located next to the town of San Juan de Teotihuacan Mexico the ancient city and pyramids of the same name are the most popular day trip from Mexico City. This vast archaeological site is also a can’t-miss attraction for most travelers.

Fun Fact: The Teotihuacan meaning, in Aztec, is “the place where the gods were created.”

Walking through this UNESCO World Heritage Site is like traveling back in time. The
The teotihuacan archaeological site is just 30 miles northeast of CDMX in central Mexico.

It is an awesome day trip to combine with the rest of your visit to Mexico City. Keep reading for everything you need to know!

How to Get from Mexico City to Teotihuacán

When going from Mexico City to Teotihuacan you can go by private car, by public transit, or by guided tour. There isn’t a bad option to choose.

Generally speaking, the fastest options are the most expensive and the cheapest options take the longest.

Drive Yourself

Driving from Mexico City to Teotihuacan is not for the faint-hearted. Traffic in the city limits can be frustrating. There are special rules about when private vehicles can and cannot be on the roads.

We stayed in Mexico City for a month and only drove our car twice. Once was to Teotihuacan. You can also rent a car if you want full autonomy in planning your day.

👉 I recommend using Discover Cars for renting a car on your trip!

In general, driving in Mexico is fairly safe. We’ve driven all over the country with only minor issues.

Once you understand if you’re permitted to drive on the day you want to go from Mexico City to Teotihuacan, the route is pretty straightforward.

Avenida Insurgentes becomes highway 85/85D on the outskirts of CDMX. It then connects to highway 132D, which goes directly to the Teotihuacan archeological site.

Take a Rideshare

You can easily go from Mexico City to Teotihuacan by rideshare. The three most popular rideshare companies are Uber, Didi, or Beat.

They will pick you up at your hotel in CDMX and drop you off at the entrance to the Teotihuacan pyramids.

Pro Tip: Make sure you select Teotihuacan Piramides as your dropoff point, not the town next to it of the same name.

Getting back from Teotihuacan to Mexico City is pretty easy with a rideshare service. There are usually a number of available cars nearby, and you’ll only need to wait 5-10 minutes at most for a pickup.

While this is the easiest way to get to Teotihuacan, it is also one of the priciest.

Assuming there is no surge pricing activated, the one-way cost for a rideshare from Mexico City to Teotihuacan is usually about 400 pesos (~$20 USD).

Public Transport

The bus to Teotihuacan from Mexico City leaves from the Norte Metro Station. The bus from Mexico City to Teotihuacan pyramids runs every 15-20 minutes from 6 am to 10 pm.

Address: Eje Central Lázaro Cárdenas No. 4907 Col. Magdalena de las Salinas 07760 Mexico City
Cost: 52 pesos one-way or 114 pesos round trip
Travel Time: 90 minutes without traffic delays

The Northern bus terminal is quite large, over 100,00 square meters. In addition to the Teotihuacan bus, it houses 110 platforms, 54 ticket offices, 24 commercial premises, and 8 waiting rooms.

If you take the bus, allow yourself some extra time to find your way through it.

Note: Our friends took the Mexico City to Teotihuacan bus. Traffic was pretty bad and their bus crashed en route. Yes, seriously! Thankfully, they were fine.

When you return to Mexico City by bus, there is no designated bus Teotihuacan stop.

Just go back to where you were dropped off, at either entrance #2 or #3, and look for the same bus that brought you. Buses depart Teotihuacan every 15-20 minutes, or when they’re full.

Guided Tour

A group tour from Mexico City to Teotihuacan is the easiest way to enjoy a day trip to the pyramids. You don’t have to worry about entry fees or navigating traffic.

We are adventurous travelers, but sometimes we do book group tours because it’s easier. It’s also nice to ensure that there’s a local expert to tell us about the place we’re visiting.

Guides aren’t always available on-site at Teotihuacan. They are supposed to be. However, there weren’t any on the day we went. So a tour is the only way to guarantee that you’ll get a guide.

Day Trips from Mexico City to Teotihuacan with Kids

Most Mexico City to Teotihuacan tours include other stops along the way.

👉 This Teotihuacan with Kids tour is designed just for families!

If you just want a quick and easy trip to see only Teotihuacan, then that’s possible, too.

Some guided tours are private, just for your group. Other tours are open to anyone who books on the same day and time as your group. So you may be touring in a larger group with strangers.

Both have their benefits, namely exclusivity vs cost. So be sure you know what you want from your excursion before booking anything.

👉 This express day trip gets you back from Teotihuacan by lunch.

Day trips with extra stops are a great way to see a bit more of the city or its surroundings without any extra effort on your part.

Popular stops to combine with a visit to Teotihuacan include Tequila tastings (not kid-friendly), the Basilica of Guadalupe, or even silver mining towns.

👉 This group tour stops at the Basilica of Guadalupe and a nearby history museum.

If you really want to see the ruins in a unique way, consider booking a hot air balloon ride over Teotihuacan. We did this and it was one of our favorite Mexico City excursions!

👉 I recommend this Hot Air Balloon Ride over Teotihuacan!

Mexico City to Teotihuacan: Hours and Entry Fees

☑️ Adult Entrance Fee: 85 pesos per person
☑️ Kids Entry Fee: Kids under 13 enter free
☑️ Equipment Fee: 50 pesos for large camera equipment
☑️ Address: Autopista Ecatepec 22,600 Km, 55850 San Juan Teotihuacan de Arista, México
☑️ Hours: 8 am – 4:30 pm daily

Mexico City to Teotihuacan: What to See on Your Visit

Whether you book a tour or visit on your own, it’s important to know a bit about the ruins before you make the trip from Mexico City to Teotihuacan.

History of Teotihuacan

Today, Teotihuacan is known as the site of many of the most architecturally significant Mesoamerican pyramids built in the pre-Colombian Americas.

At its height, during the first millennium, Teotihuacan had a population of over 125,000 and was the largest city in the Americas. At that time, it would have been the sixth-largest city on earth!

Fun Fact: In addition to the large pyramids, Teotihuacan was home to multi-floor apartment compounds built to accommodate the large population.

Many different cultural groups lived in Teotihuacan during the height of its power. Migrants came from all over to live and work there, but especially from Oaxaca and the Gulf Coast.

Fun Facts About Teotihuacan

☑️ The city was built around 100 BCE.
☑️ It collapsed around 550 CE.
☑️ The ruins site covers 83 square kilometers (32 square miles).
☑️ It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.
☑️ Teotihuacan is the most visited ruin site in all of Mexico.

Popular Sites at Teotihuacan

The most popular ruin sites at Teotihuacan are the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon.

The Teotihuacan Pyramid of the Sun is the third largest pyramid on earth. Only Egypt’s Cheops tomb and the pyramid of Cholula, near Puebla, are larger.

The Pyramid of the Moon looks about the same height as the Pyramid of the sun, but it’s not. It is just built on higher ground to make it appear similar in size.

Don’t skip the rest of the sites here, though. The Avenue of the Dead and the Palace of Quetzalpapalotl are also worth seeing.

Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to get off the main tourist path to really explore inside some of the buildings that are open for visitors to tour.

The Avenue of the Dead is the main path that connects most of the sights at Teotihuacán.

For two kilometers, the avenue is enclosed on both sides by former palaces of Teotihuacán’s elite citizens. The Palace of Quetzalpapalotl has some of the most ornate carvings on the entire site.

Teotihuacan is well-known for its colorful murals painted on plastered walls. They can be found in the city’s many apartment compounds as well as on other buildings identified as palaces and temples.

Teotihuacan Museum

This impressive museum showcases murals from Teotihuacán, as well as reconstructions of murals you’ll see at the ruins. It’s behind and to the left of the Pyramid of the Moon.

Pro Tip: Save this for later in your day trip from Mexico City to Teotihuacan. It’s shaded and air-conditioned, so you can cool off in the afternoon heat.

In addition to artifacts like pottery, the museum also has some skeletons on display that have been found around the ruins site.

My favorite part was the 3D model of the entire Teotihuacan ruin site that’s overlooking a window wall of the Pyramid of the Moon.

Shopping at Teotihuacan

There are some little trinket stalls at each entrance to Teotihuacan. Depending on the day and time, not all of these will be open.

They all sell the same sort of stuff, though. There is a lot of jewelry, miniature masks made in the style that has often been found at the ruin site, and some animal sound ‘whistles.’

Note: None of the vendors take credit cards or US dollars. If you want to shop, bring pesos.

You can also shop from the local vendors inside Teotihuacan. A number of people set up small areas with items for sale, similar to what’s on sale outside at the booths. There aren’t nearly as many as we’ve seen at Chichen Itza.

If you want some truly unique souvenirs to commemorate your trip from Mexico City to Teotihuacan, head to the town of San Juan de Teotihuacan.

It’s adjacent to the ruins site. Visit the artisan market, called Comercializadora Artesanal Teotihuacan.

Can You Climb the Pyramids at Teotihuacan?

No, you can no longer climb either the Temple of the Sun or the Temple of the Moon. The practice was discontinued in 2021 after the Teotihuacan ruins reopened following a temporary pandemic-related closure.

Although climbing the tallest pyramids at the ruins has historically been a popular activity at Teotihuacan, it’s unknown if the Mexican government will restart the practice after the pandemic subsides.

Mexico City to Teotihuacan: What’s the Best Time to Go?

The best time of year to visit Teotihuacan is in the winter, from December to February. The weather is somewhat cool this time of year in Teotihuacan, so if you’re used to the Yucatan peninsula then add pants and a jacket to your packing list.

The average high during the winter season is between 77.9°F (25.5°C) and 69.5°F (20.8°C). Lows can be in the 50s°F earlier in the morning.

Teotihuacan is best visited at opening time, around 9 am before crowds begin to build up in the late morning and afternoon. Visiting at this time also allows you to take advantage of the cooler weather.

Pro Tip: Don’t go on Sundays. It’s free for citizens and residents of Mexico, so it gets very busy.

If you take a hot air balloon tour over Teotihuacan, you’ll be perfectly situated to arrive as the gates open at the pyramids.

Mexico City to Teotihuacan: Where to Eat

There are small food stalls at the main entrance, Gates 1 and 2. These sell snacks and bottled drinks as well as some local Mexican food.

If you really want a unique food experience, go to La Gruta restaurant. It’s across the street from entrance Gate 5.

You can either drive yourself to park in their lot, or just walk out of Gate 5 and across the street. It’s not terribly far, even if you have kids in tow.

Note: The food is just okay. It’s overpriced and the options for kids are terrible. But it’s a lot of fun! And it’s cooler because it’s underground.

La Gruta is a dried-up cenote that has been turned into an underground restaurant. It’s a really cool atmosphere.

Keep in mind you’re paying for the experience and not a culinary masterpiece and you won’t be disappointed.

Mexico City to Teotihuacan: Where to Stay

San Juan Teotihuacan is a very small town. There isn’t much to do there other than see the ruins. I recommend staying in one of the many safe and vibrant neighborhoods in Mexico City.

However, if you do want to stay in town and enjoy some of the nearby sights, there are some good options to consider.

👉 High-End Recommendation: Villas Teotihuacan Hotel & Spa

Located less than five minutes walking from the Teotihuacan entrance, this hotel offers a large pool and a playground for the kids. Breakfast is available in its on-site restaurant at an extra cost.

👉 Mid-Range Recommendation: Hotel Teotihuacan

Located outside San Juan Teotihuacan Centro, this hotel isn’t easily walkable from the ruins. It does have a restaurant and a pool on-site, as well as free parking. Breakfast is available at the restaurant, for an extra cost.

👉 Budget Recommendation: Hotel La Finca de Abuelo Teotihuacan

This hotel is a 20-minute walk from the Teotihuacan entrance if you don’t have a car. It also has free wifi in the lobby and offers a free continental breakfast.

Mexico City to Teotihuacan: Things to Do

If you’re staying near the Teotihuacan ruins and want to make a weekend of the excursion, it’s possible to do that. There are a few pretty cool things to do near the town for you to explore.

Burrolandia

☑️ Address: Calle Estación 6, La Estación, 55880 Otumba de Gómez Farías, México
☑️ Hours: By appointment
☑️Cost: 100 pesos for adults, 80 pesos for kids

This rescue for donkeys, called burros in Spanish, takes in donkeys who would otherwise not have a place to go after their owners can’t or won’t continue to care for them.

Pro Tip: If you take a taxi or Uber here from Teotihuacan, pay them to stay and wait for you. There are no taxis or rideshares to pick you up after.

Plus you get to pet and feed the donkeys, who are (mostly) really sweet.

The guides give tours explaining that this little animal, despite not being Mexican, became a representative Mexican animal. Sadly, they are in danger of extinction.

There is a small cafeteria on site but it’s fairly expensive. And it’s cash only. Bring pesos.

Teotihuacan at Night

☑️ Address: Autopista Ecatepec 22,600 Km, 55850 San Juan Teotihuacan de Arista, México
☑️ Hours: 7:30 pm – 9 pm Monday & Thursday to Saturday
*Only occurs from November through June.
☑️ Cost: 496 pesos, including Ticketmaster fees

Also known as Expereriencia Nocturna en Teotihuacan, this show is a unique way to see Teotihuacan after dark.

The evening starts with a 45-minute guided tour of the Avenue of the Dead. Then there is a 30-minute light and sound show projected right onto the Pyramid of the Sun.

Unlike daytime visits to the pyramids, the night show requires tickets to be purchased in advance. The evening is capacity-controlled and does sell out. So plan ahead.

👉 You must buy tickets online with Ticketmaster.

Ticket pickup must be at a Mexico City will-call location. You cannot print out tickets from home, you cannot buy tickets on-site at Teotihuacan, and the will call is in downtown Mexico City, NOT at Teotihuacan.

Casa Museo de Cacao

☑️ Address: San Martín de las píramides Teotihuacán de Arista, 55812 Mexico, México
☑️ Hours: 10 am – 5 pm daily
☑️ Cost: varies

Chocolate was an integral part of the various pre-Colombian cultures that inhabited Mexico and Central America. This yummy spot is a museum, a coffee shop, and a chocolate store all in one.

Pro Tip: Kids will love a museum where they can try yummy samples!

It offers a great introduction to both the cultural and historical significance of cacao in the region. They cover how chocolate is made, where it comes from, and its amazing properties.

Tonalkalco Dinner Theater

☑️ Address: CALLE EJIDOS DE OXTOYOHUALCO S/N, Purificacion, 55800 San Juan Teotihuacan de Arista, México
☑️ Hours: Saturdays; Dinner is at 2 pm and the show starts at 4 pm
☑️ Cost: 200 to 1000 pesos, depending on the package purchased

Who would have thought to combine food and a show in a subterranean cave?! That’s exactly what Tonalkalco has done.

The show presents the history of the region from the pre-Colombian peoples through the colonization period.

👉 You can buy tickets that include dinner here. Transportation and beverages aren’t included though.

The optional dinner is a combination of Mexican favorites, served buffet style before the show begins.

This means the kiddos can try everything and go back for what they actually enjoy. Or they may just eat their weight in guacamole, like my kid.

Mexico City to Teotihuacan: What to Bring

There isn’t a lot of shade at Teotihuacan. Nor are there many food options right on site. There are a few things to bring from Mexico City to Teotihuacan that will make your excursion much more enjoyable.

Walking Shoes

Teotihuacan is a massive complex. The steps into the structures you are permitted to enter are uneven and rocky. Flip flops aren’t going to cut it here.

You want sturdy walking shoes, like keens or sneakers. David and I wore closed-toe keens while Little Man wore sneakers and socks. Either one works well, although I did get small stones in my sandals a few times.

So sneakers are your best bet if you’ve packed them.

Water Bottle

Once you get passed the entrances, there are no snack stands or vendors selling drinks. The climate at Teotihuacan is rather arid. Combined with warm temperatures into the afternoon, you will get thirsty.

Make sure to bring your own water bottle so that you don’t have to buy the overpriced disposable plastic bottles at the entrances.

👉 We use this water bladder since it takes up less space and weight than a bottle.

Sunscreen

Even though it feels a bit cooler in the mornings, the sun is still strong. Don’t let the lack of oppressive heat (like in the beach towns) fool you.

Wear a good sunscreen of at least SPF 30. This is the minimum you need to actually offer any actual protection from the sun.

👉 I like this sunscreen for outdoor excursions and water activities.

Sunhat

Even if you’ve applied sunscreen, you don’t want your forehead to burn. If you’re anything like me and tend to burn along your hairline where you missed a couple of spots, a sunhat is essential.

Something that covers your neck, as well as your face, is best.

👉 I recommend this sunhat for maximum protection. It has room for my ponytail and comes in different colors.

Toilet Paper

There are restrooms at each entrance gate to Teotihuacan. However, they can be in various states of upkeep. Often in Mexico, we have found that toilet paper is missing from public toilets. I always bring my own, just in case.

Since a full roll takes up a lot of space I put some in a zippered pouch, bring a half-roll, or grab a pack of travel toilet paper. Travel packs of facial tissues or wet wipes also work well.

You can’t flush toilet paper anyway, so don’t worry about what you pack not being flushable.

There’s always a trash bin next to the toilets in Mexico for all paper waste.

Snacks

While there is limited food sold at the entrances, you don’t always want to eat it right at that moment.

If your kids are anything like mine, they’re hungry 45 minutes after you’ve entered and are at the furthest possible spot from the gate.

We always bring some granola or protein bars everywhere we go. They hold up well over several excursions and are filling enough to tide over hungry tummies until the next meal.

Day Pack

If you’re going to be carrying around all the stuff I listed above, or at least some of it, you need a good day pack.

Choose something with comfortable straps and that’s roomy enough to hold everything you need it to carry.

👉 I love this water bladder day pack! I can pack daily essentials in it, too.

The bonus to this day pack is it comes with the water bladder, so you don’t have to invest in one separately. Who doesn’t love saving money?

Conclusion: Getting from Mexico City to Teotihuacan

Mexico City is one of the best vacation spots in Mexico since there’s so much to do there.

Whether you take the bus, a car, or a group tour from Mexico City to Teotihuacan the ruins are a really fun day trip from Mexico City. We had our own car to drive ourselves, but with a family, I’d recommend taking a group tour.

There is enough to navigate on vacation without having to worry about traffic or missing your transit connection. Plus, many of the group tours take care of things like eating lunch and paying tolls.

If you do drive yourself, make sure you eat at La Gruta and check out one of the cool things to do near Teotihuacan. Most people skip those, and it’s a real shame because they’re a lot of fun!

👉 While we have global health insurance for our day-to-day lives, we also elect travel insurance with SafetyWing for our spurts of fast travel adventure!