Common Tourist Scams in Mexico City (and How to Avoid Them)

By The Kakapo Editorial Team · Last updated 2026-05-21 · Part of the Mexico City safety guide

Scams and money

• Card-cloning at gas stations and street ATMs: use ATMs inside Banamex, Santander, BBVA branches.
• Currency exchange at the airport: rates are poor. Withdraw pesos from an ATM in town.
• "Cantina without a menu" — agree price before ordering at small restaurants without posted prices. Most cantinas are honest; a few in tourist zones aren't.
• Tipping: 10-15% standard at restaurants; round up for taxis; 20-30 pesos for hotel staff.
• Currency: Mexican peso (MXN). Cards work everywhere mid-range and up; cash for street food, mercados, taxis, small purchases.

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Sources

• US State Department — Mexico travel advisory
• UK FCDO — Mexico travel advice
• Servicio Sismológico Nacional (UNAM)
• Visit Mexico — official tourism