13 Cheapest Places to Fly from Mexico City for an Epic Trip

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Flying from Mexico City is way more affordable than you might think. After spending countless hours comparing flights (and actually taking these trips myself), I’ve found some ridiculous deals that’ll get you somewhere incredible without destroying your savings. Last month, I snagged a $120 roundtrip to Oaxaca, where I spent mornings wandering through the incredible Mercado 20 de Noviembre and stuffing my face with the best tlayudas ever.

Want to know the best places from Mexico City to visit without emptying your bank account? From catching waves in Puerto Escondido (those beach sunsets though!) to exploring the colorful streets of San Miguel de Allende, these flight deals are too good to keep to myself. Here are 13 destinations you can actually afford to fly to right now, because amazing adventures shouldn’t cost your entire paycheck.

#1 tip for finding cheap flights from Mexico City

For the past 5 years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to find cheap flight deals. It’s free and super easy to use. All you have to do is enter in your home airport (i.e. NLU) and where you want to go, and they’ll send you mistake fares and other ridiculously cheap flight deals.

In 2024 alone, I saved thousands of dollars thanks to their email alerts. This includes most recently, a $655 roundtrip fare from Mexico City to London. On average, I save about $400 roundtrip on selected flight routes. So, I’m a huge fan and couldn’t recommend them more!

If you’re a frequent flier, consider getting their premium version. It costs $49 per year, but it will easily save you hundreds (or thousands) of dollars if you fly just 1-2 times. I recommend signing up for the free trial (which you can cancel at any time) to test it out for yourself. And if you like it, use my coupon code JON20 to save 20%!

Where to Fly Cheap from Mexico City

Looking to fly cheap from Mexico City? Visit Cancún for its stunning beaches, explore the vibrant culture of Guadalajara, admire the modern skyline of Monterrey, or experience the lively border city of Tijuana. Whether you’re after relaxation, history, or nightlife, these destinations offer affordable escapes from Mexico City.

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1. Mexico City to Cancun ($79–$135 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Volaris, Viva Aerobus, Aeromexico, Interjet (20+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to April 🌴 and May 🌞 for fewer crowds
• 🏆 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏖️, cenote explorers 🤿, nightlife seekers 🎉

Cancun is where Caribbean paradise meets Mexican hospitality. This Yucatan hotspot delivers pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and vibrant nightlife without the need for a long international flight.

Hotel Zone stretches along a perfect strip of white sand with turquoise water on one side and a calm lagoon on the other. Isla Mujeres is just a quick ferry ride away with less crowded beaches and amazing snorkeling spots where you can swim with whale sharks in season. The surrounding area is packed with natural wonders from underground cenotes (natural sinkholes) to ancient Mayan ruins like Tulum and Chichen Itza.

Budget airlines make this one of Mexico’s most affordable getaways. Volaris and Viva Aerobus battle for the cheapest fares, with deals often below $80 roundtrip if you can travel light and book 4-6 weeks ahead. February and March offer perfect beach weather though with peak season crowds, while May gives you that sweet spot of great weather and smaller crowds.

2. Mexico City to Guadalajara ($100–$140 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Volaris, Viva Aerobus, Aeromexico (25+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to December 🍂 and February to April 🌸 for ideal climate
• 🏆 Perfect for: Tequila enthusiasts 🥃, culture lovers 🎭, food fanatics 🌮

Guadalajara is where traditional Mexico meets creative energy. This Jalisco capital gives you incredible architecture, authentic mariachi music, and world-class cuisine without the overwhelming size and crowds of Mexico City.

Historic Center packs stunning colonial buildings around plazas where mariachi bands perform their original music. Tlaquepaque neighborhood feels like stepping into old Mexico with pedestrian streets filled with art galleries, craft shops, and restaurants where you can catch live music while dining in converted mansions.

November brings perfect weather plus the colorful Day of the Dead celebrations, while March offers sunny days ideal for exploring the city’s many outdoor plazas and markets. For flights, Volaris and Viva Aerobus consistently offer the cheapest fares, with deals sometimes below $100 roundtrip if you book 3-4 weeks ahead and travel light. 

3. Mexico City to Monterrey ($113–$150 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Viva Aerobus, Volaris, Aeromexico (15+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌸 and October to November 🍂 for pleasant weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Urban explorers 🏙️, outdoor enthusiasts 🏔️, food lovers 🍖

Monterrey is where modern Mexico meets stunning mountain landscapes. This northern business hub delivers incredible outdoor adventures, cosmopolitan dining, and vibrant arts without the tourist crowds found in beach destinations.

Fundidora Park transformed a massive old steel factory into an urban green space with museums, concert venues, and walking paths through industrial ruins. Barrio Antiguo gives you colorful colonial buildings housing cool bars and restaurants where locals actually hang out. The outdoor opportunities here are insane. Chipinque Ecological Park and La Huasteca canyon offer hiking, climbing, and mountain biking just minutes from downtown skyscrapers. 

Viva Aerobus typically offers the cheapest fares from Mexico City, with deals sometimes below $115 roundtrip if you travel midweek with minimal luggage. April and November deliver perfect temperatures for exploring both urban and natural attractions without the intense summer heat. 

4. Mexico City to Tijuana ($85–$145 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Volaris, Viva Aerobus, Aeromexico (10+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to October 🌞 and March to May 🌷 for ideal weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Foodie adventurers 🌮, border culture fans 🎭, wine enthusiasts 🍷

Tijuana is where Mexican culture meets California influence. This border city has completely transformed from its sketchy past into a vibrant culinary destination with emerging arts scenes and nearby wine country.

Avenida Revolución has evolved from tourist trap to cool district with craft breweries, coffee shops, and gastro parks housed in renovated historic buildings. Playas de Tijuana offers miles of beachfront where you can literally stand at the border wall extending into the Pacific Ocean. The food scene here is mind-blowing. Just an hour south, Valle de Guadalupe gives you Mexico’s premier wine region with boutique vineyards and farm-to-table restaurants in stunning desert landscapes.

Volaris typically offers the most competitive fares from Mexico City, with deals sometimes below $90 roundtrip if you book 4-6 weeks ahead and travel light. September brings perfect weather plus the harvest season in nearby wine country, while April offers ideal temperatures for exploring the city and beaches. 

5. Mexico City to Merida ($169–$220 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours
• 🛫 Airlines: Volaris, Viva Aerobus, Aeromexico (8+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to March 🌞 and September to October 🌦️ for fewer crowds
• 🏆 Perfect for: Architecture enthusiasts 🏛️, cenote explorers 🤿, culture seekers 🎨

Merida feels like stepping into a totally different Mexico than what you get in the capital. This Yucatan gem has this amazing vibe where colonial Spanish buildings meet Mayan culture, all painted in these gorgeous pastel colors that look incredible on Instagram.

The main boulevard, Paseo de Montejo, is lined with mansions built by henequen barons (basically the millionaires of their day) that will make your jaw drop. Downtown’s Plaza Grande is where everyone hangs out in the evenings with live music, amazing street food, and this energy that just feels so authentically Mexican. 

Flights from Mexico City won’t break the bank, but they’re not super cheap either. Your best bet is Viva Aerobus if you can travel light, or Aeromexico if you need more baggage and don’t mind paying a bit extra for better service. February is absolutely perfect weather-wise, but honestly, even the “rainy season” here just means a quick afternoon shower before the sun comes right back out. 

6. Mexico City to Oaxaca ($113–$160 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Volaris, Viva Aerobus, Aeromexico (10+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to May 🌞 and November 💀 for Day of the Dead
• 🏆 Perfect for: Food enthusiasts 🌮, mezcal lovers 🥃, art collectors 🎨

Oaxaca is where indigenous traditions meet incredible food culture. This southern Mexican gem gives you colorful colonial streets, mind-blowing cuisine, and authentic cultural experiences without the tourist markup of beach destinations.

The historic center is absolutely gorgeous with pedestrian streets, stunning churches, and markets where you can find everything from handwoven textiles to chapulines (spiced grasshoppers that taste way better than they sound). Monte Albán sits just outside town with ancient Zapotec ruins on a mountaintop offering incredible valley views. 

Volaris and Viva Aerobus regularly compete for the best fares, often dipping below $115 roundtrip if you book a few weeks ahead and travel light. For perfect spring weather and blooming jacarandas, visit in March or April.

7. Mexico City to Puerto Vallarta ($125–$170 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Volaris, Viva Aerobus, Aeromexico (12+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to April 🌞 and October to November 🌊 for whale watching
• 🏆 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏖️, nightlife seekers 🎉, nature enthusiasts 🐋

Puerto Vallarta is where gorgeous beaches meet lush jungle mountains. This Pacific coast favorite gives you that perfect mix of natural beauty, amazing food, and vibrant nightlife without feeling like a manufactured resort town.

The Malecon boardwalk runs along the ocean with incredible sunset views, street performers, and public art installations that make every evening stroll an event. Old Town (Zona Romantica) has this perfect blend of authentic Mexican charm and international influences, with cobblestone streets lined with restaurants serving everything from street tacos to high-end seafood. The surrounding area is absolutely stunning. Banderas Bay offers perfect beaches while the jungle-covered mountains behind town hide secret waterfalls and natural pools you can hike to.

Volaris and Viva Aerobus regularly drop fares below $130 roundtrip if you book midweek and plan ahead. January to March brings ideal beach weather and peak whale watching, while October kicks off the dry season with fewer crowds and just as much sunshine.

8. Mexico City to Colombia ($150–$220 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 3-5 hours (depending on destination city)
• 🛫 Airlines: Avianca, Aeromexico, Viva Air, Wingo (multiple daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to March 🌞 and July to August ☀️ for dry seasons
• 🏆 Perfect for: Coffee enthusiasts ☕, colonial architecture lovers 🏛️, nature explorers 🌿

Colombia is where South American charm meets incredible diversity. This vibrant country delivers everything from Caribbean beaches to Andean mountains, colonial cities to modern metropolises, all at prices that make it one of Latin America’s best values.

Bogotá, the capital, sits high in the Andes with gold museums, street art tours, and a historic center full of colonial buildings. Cartagena gives you that Caribbean fantasy with colorful walled city streets, perfect beaches, and nightlife that goes until sunrise. Medellín, once infamous for drug cartels, has completely transformed into a modern city with perfect spring-like weather year-round thanks to its elevation. 

Flying from Mexico City to Colombia is easier than ever with multiple airlines offering direct routes. Avianca operates the most flights to various Colombian cities, while budget carriers like Viva Air sometimes offer incredible deals if you book a few months ahead. 

9. Mexico City to Acapulco ($141–$180 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 45 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Aeromexico, Viva Aerobus, Volaris (8+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to April 🌞 and May 🌊 for fewer crowds
• 🏆 Perfect for: Beach enthusiasts 🏖️, cliff diving watchers 🏊, nightlife lovers 🎉

Acapulco is where retro beach vibes meet spectacular bay views. This classic Mexican resort city offers stunning beaches, legendary nightlife, and a more authentic experience than the manufactured feel of newer destinations.

La Quebrada cliff divers have been performing heart-stopping dives into narrow ocean inlets since the 1930s, timing their jumps perfectly with incoming waves. Playa Condesa gives you that classic Acapulco beach experience with golden sand and perfect swimming conditions right in the heart of the hotel zone. The nightlife here is absolutely legendary. From massive clubs like Palladium to beachfront bars where you can dance barefoot in the sand until sunrise, Acapulco still knows how to party despite its more mature reputation.

This ultra-quick hop from Mexico City is perfect for spontaneous weekend getaways. Viva Aerobus usually has the cheapest fares, while Aeromexico is worth considering for more flexible schedules and better onboard service. 

10. Mexico City to Veracruz ($189–$240 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour
• 🛫 Airlines: Aeromexico, Viva Aerobus, Volaris (6+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to April 🌞 and February/March 🎭 for Carnival
• 🏆 Perfect for: Seafood lovers 🦐, history buffs 🏛️, music enthusiasts 🎵

Veracruz is where Gulf Coast flavor meets colonial history. This port city offers amazing seafood, Afro-Caribbean rhythms, and laid-back vibes without the tourist crowds of Mexico’s more famous beach destinations.

Locals call this city “Veracruz Lindo” (Beautiful Veracruz) for good reason. The Malecón (waterfront promenade) stretches along the Gulf of Mexico where fishermen bring in their daily catch and vendors serve fresh oysters right on the spot. In the evenings, the Portal de Miranda fills with café tables where you can sip coffee while watching street performers and jarocho musicians playing their distinctive harps and guitars. 

Flights aren’t as cheap as you’d expect for a one-hour hop, but Viva Aerobus often offers the lowest fares if you book a few weeks in advance and travel midweek. Visit in February to experience Veracruz’s famous Carnival, or November with excellent hotel rates and sunny days along the waterfront.

11. Mexico City to Leon ($222–$270 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 55 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Aeromexico, Viva Aerobus, Volaris (7+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to April 🌞 and October 🦋 for butterfly season
• 🏆 Perfect for: Shoe enthusiasts 👢, colonial town explorers 🏙️, hot air balloon riders 🎈

Leon is where leather craftsmanship meets colorful colonial history. This Guanajuato city delivers incredible shopping, nearby historic towns, and authentic central Mexican culture without the tourist crowds of more famous destinations.

Zona Piel is leather heaven with hundreds of shops and markets selling everything from custom boots to designer handbags at prices that’ll make you want to bring an empty suitcase. But Leon is more than just shopping. It serves as the perfect gateway to the stunning colonial cities of central Mexico. Just 30 minutes away, Guanajuato City winds through a mountain valley with colorful buildings stacked up the hillsides, underground tunnels for cars, and narrow alleyways perfect for exploring. 

Viva Aerobus and Volaris typically offer the best rates, but fares rarely drop below $220 roundtrip even during promotions. November brings perfect fall weather for exploring the region’s outdoor attractions, including the annual Festival Internacional del Globo.

12. Mexico City to Tuxtla Gutierrez ($157–$210 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Volaris, Viva Aerobus, Aeromexico (6+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to April 🌞 and December to January 🦋 for butterfly sightings
• 🏆 Perfect for: Nature lovers 🏞️, canyon explorers 🛶, indigenous culture enthusiasts 🏮

Tuxtla Gutierrez is where highland Chiapas adventure begins. This southern Mexican city serves as the perfect gateway to mind-blowing natural wonders and indigenous communities that feel worlds away from the capital.

The city itself is pretty modern and straightforward, but nobody comes to Tuxtla to stay in Tuxtla. Just 15 minutes away, Sumidero Canyon will blow your mind with boat tours through 1,000-meter limestone walls that make you feel tiny as spider monkeys and crocodiles hang out along the shores. About an hour’s drive away, San Cristobal de las Casas sits high in the mountains with colorful colonial buildings, indigenous markets, and a cool bohemian vibe thanks to its mix of locals, expats, and travelers. 

Finding affordable flights is relatively easy on this route. Volaris and Viva Aerobus typically offer the best deals, with fares sometimes below $160 roundtrip if you book a few weeks ahead and travel light. December through February delivers perfect weather for exploring the region’s natural attractions without the heavy rains that can wash out roads during summer months. 

13. Mexico City to Mazatlan ($105–$160 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Viva Aerobus, Volaris, Aeromexico (5+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to April 🌞 and February 🎭 for Carnival
• 🏆 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏖️, seafood enthusiasts 🦐, cultural explorers 

Mazatlan is where Pacific beach vibes meet authentic Mexican charm. This coastal gem offers the perfect mix of historic architecture, gorgeous beaches, and incredible seafood without the tourist markup of fancier resort towns.

The Malecon stretches for miles along the Pacific with perfect sunset views, cliff divers, and monument-lined walkways filled with joggers and families out for evening strolls. Centro Historico (Old Town) has undergone an amazing revival in recent years, with colorful restored buildings housing boutique hotels, art galleries, and restaurants around the stunning Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. 

Viva Aerobus typically offers the cheapest fares, with deals sometimes below $110 roundtrip if you travel midweek and book 4-6 weeks ahead. January and February give you perfect beach weather with sunny days and comfortable evenings, plus the city’s famous Carnival celebration (one of Mexico’s biggest) in February. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Cheapest Flights from Mexico City

Looking to expand your knowledge about the cheapest destinations from Mexico? Here are some common questions I get a lot about cheap flights from Mexico to anywhere.

What are the cheapest destinations to fly to from Mexico City?

Some of the cheapest places to fly from Mexico City include Cancun, Guadalajara, Monterrey, Tijuana, Merida, Oaxaca, Puerto Vallarta, San Jose del Cabo, Veracruz, Leon, Tuxtla Gutierrez, Mazatlan, and Acapulco.

Which airlines offer the best deals for these destinations?

Several airlines offer competitive deals to various destinations, depending on the region and season. For flights within Mexico and to neighboring countries, Aeroméxico and Volaris frequently provide cost-effective options. Additionally, low-cost carriers like VivaAerobús can also offer enticing deals, especially for travelers with flexible dates. It’s always advisable to compare prices across multiple platforms and book in advance to secure the best rates.

When is the best time to book cheap flights from Mexico City?

The best time to book cheap flights from Mexico City often depends on the destination and season. Generally, booking several weeks in advance can yield lower prices. Off-peak seasons, such as the months just after the holiday season or before major vacation periods, typically offer better deals. Additionally, mid-week flights, especially on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, tend to be more affordable than weekend departures.

How can I find the cheapest flights from Mexico or NLU?

Finding the cheapest flights from Mexico involves a combination of strategies and tools like the use of flight comparison websites, setting up fare alerts, booking in advance, having a flexible travel date, considering other airports nearby, and signing up for fare alerts.

Are there direct flights to all these destinations from Mexico City?

Yes, Mexico City’s primary airport, Benito Juárez International Airport, is one of the busiest in Latin America and offers direct flights to a vast number of domestic and international destinations. For the specific destinations mentioned earlier in our discussion, there are indeed direct flights available from Mexico City, making travel convenient for passengers.

Do flight prices vary significantly throughout the year?

Absolutely, flight prices can vary significantly throughout the year. Factors influencing these variations include peak travel seasons (like holidays and school vacations), major events or festivals in the destination city, and general demand and supply dynamics. For instance, destinations with popular events or festivals might see a spike in flight prices during that period. Conversely, during off-peak seasons or times when there’s less tourist activity, airlines might offer promotions or reduced fares to encourage travel. It’s always a good idea to monitor flight prices and trends for your desired route to get a sense of the best times to book.

Which airport in Mexico City serves most of these cheap flights?

Benito Juárez International Airport, also known as Mexico City International Airport, serves as the primary international gateway to Mexico City and handles the majority of these cheap flights. It’s one of the busiest airports in Latin America and offers a vast number of domestic and international routes. Airlines operating from Mexico often provide competitive fares, making it a hub for many of the cheapest flights originating from Mexico City to various destinations.

Is it cheaper to book round-trip flights or one-way flights?

Round-trip flights are often more economical than booking two separate one-way tickets, but it’s always good to compare before finalizing. Traditionally, round-trip flights were often cheaper than booking two one-way flights, as airlines offered discounts to passengers booking return tickets. However, in recent years, with the rise of low-cost carriers and more flexible booking options, this isn’t always the case. It can sometimes be cheaper, or comparably priced, to book one-way flights, especially if you’re considering flying back with a different airline or from a different airport. It’s advisable to compare both options when planning your trip to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

How early should I arrive at the airport for domestic flights?

Arrival Time for Domestic Flights: For domestic flights within Mexico, it’s recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure. This allows ample time for check-in, security checks, and any other potential delays. During peak travel times or busy holiday seasons, consider adding an extra buffer to this time to account for longer queues and potential unforeseen delays.

Are there any nearby destinations not included in the list due to their proximity to Mexico City?

Yes, when considering the cheapest places to fly from Mexico City, some nearby destinations might be excluded primarily due to their proximity to the capital. These destinations are often easily accessible by road or short-distance travel methods, making flying less common or necessary.