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Mexico City packs colonial squares, world-class museums and some of the best street food anywhere. It's a short hop west of Puebla, over the pass between the volcanoes. The bus is the cheapest way to get from Puebla to Mexico City at $20 (345 MXN). The minivan is the quickest option, taking 1h, but it costs more.
Distance from Puebla to Mexico City
Puebla and Mexico City are about 137 km (85 miles) apart, and the journey itself covers around 163 km by road. The quickest way to get from Puebla to Mexico City is by taking the minivan, which takes around 1h.
4 ways to travel from Puebla to Mexico City
There are four ways to travel from Puebla to Mexico City. You can choose between the bus, car rental, minivan, and private transport. The journey takes 1h–2h 30m and the quickest way is by minivan. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by bus with tickets starting at $20 (345 MXN).
incl. transfers — see itinerary
- City Centre→Puebla Bus Terminal20m
- Puebla→Mexico City1h 55m
- Mexico City Bus Terminal→City Centre30m
- TAPO Station to Mexico City Centre20m
- Central Mexico Norte Station to the City Centre1h
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Puebla to Mexico City by Bus
The bus journey from Puebla to Mexico City should take around 2h 30m - 4h 30m.
There are departures all throughout the day, so you can pick a time that suits you — whether you're heading to Mexico City or straight to Mexico City Airport.
Step 1: City Centre to Puebla Bus Terminal by Taxi
Most buses operating from Puebla to Mexico City depart from Centro de Autobuses Puebla or CAPU, 5 km northwest of downtown Puebla. You can get there in around 20 minutes by taxi or Uber.
While taxis are available on the streets of Puebla, Uber normally offers cheaper rates. So we recommend that you hail a ride through the Uber app. Uber fares from the city centre to CAPU start from $4.60 (80 MXN).
Local Buses are cheaper, but take longer
It’s also possible to go by bus through Puebla's Metrobus System, the Red Urbana de Transporte Articulado or RUTA. Look out for any of these routes which can take you the bus terminal entrance:
- RUTA 10 (9 stops): Passes spots like Fayuca, Plaza San Pedro, TELMEX, and Wal-Mart San Manuel before reaching C.U.
- RUTA BLVD-C.U. (16 stops): Covers destinations such as Centro Escolar Morelos, Mercado Hidalgo, Blvd. 5 de Mayo, and Plaza Dorada.
- ENLACE 2010 (14 stops): Includes Blvd. Norte, China Poblana, Parque Ecológico, and La Margarita.
The bus ride takes about 50 minutes to reach the bus terminal, depending on traffic — that's more than double the travel time of taking an Uber. But if you prefer budget over speed, you can get a bus ticket to CAPU for only $0.30 (6 MXN).
If you’re staying around Zócalo de Puebla (the main square), the nearest bus stop is near the Convention Centre.
Just remember: RUTA buses don’t take cash. If you don't have one yet, you’ll need to grab a prepaid RUTA card from one of the vending machines at the bus stop.
Buses going to Mexico City Airport
Buses bound for Mexico City Airport depart from either CAPU or a newer bus station called Paseo Destino, 9 km south of Puebla city centre. The best way to get there is a 20-minute Uber ride with fares from $7.20 (125 MXN).
Step 2: Puebla to Mexico City by Bus
ADO and AU are the bus companies operating on this route. ADO offers a more comfortable ride with better seats and onboard toilets, while AU is the cheaper option with simpler buses and no restrooms. Check out our Mexico Transport Guide for a full comparison of their bus types and amenities.
A bus ticket from Puebla to Mexico City costs around $15 (260 MXN) and the bus trip takes 1h 55m - 3h 40m.
Bus tickets are available on Bookaway.
Booking Tip
Step 3: Mexico City Bus Terminal to City Centre
Different bus companies have varying arrival stations in Mexico City:
- Terminal de Buses de Oriente TAPO
- Central Mexico Norte
- Benito Juarez International Airport
- Mexico Felipe Angeles Airport
If you’re arriving at any of the two bus stations (TAPO or Central Mexico Norte), they both have 24/7 authorised taxi services available. Both stations are also well-connected to the public transport in the city.
The most direct way to get to the city is by taxi or Uber. It takes about 15-30 minutes and a ride to the city centre should cost around $4.60 (80 MXN) - $8.60 (150 MXN).
On a budget? Below we explain the public transport from the bus stations to the city centre.
TAPO Station to Mexico City Centre
The Terminal de Autobuses de Oriente, also known as TAPO, is located 8 km east of Mexico City, in between the city centre and the airport.
It’s the closest station to the city centre and a taxi or Uber ride from TAPO usually takes about 15-20 minutes and costs around $6.90 (120 MXN).
You can also get to the city centre by Metrobus for just $0.30 (6 MXN). You’ll need to board the Metrobus at San Lazaro Station, right in front of TAPO bus terminal. Take line #4 and you’ll reach the city centre in about 20 minutes.
Central Mexico Norte Station to the City Centre
From Central Mexico Norte Bus Terminal, an Uber ride to the city centre takes around 30 minutes. Rates start from $7 (120 MXN).
It also has access to the Metro, but going to the city centre can be a bit of a hassle as you may have to switch lines twice. The total Metro journey takes around 1 hour and costs $0.30 (5 MXN).
You can find the Metro station — Autobuses del Norte — right in front of the bus terminal. Hop on Line #5 towards Pantitlán and get off at the next stop, La Raza. From there, transfer to Line #3 heading towards 'Universidad' and ride until you reach Hidalgo Station. Finally, switch to Line #2 and after three stops, you’ll arrive at Zócalo Station, right next to the main square.
To help with planning your route, you can check the maps at the entrance of each stop. If you have internet access, you can use apps like Moovit, a specialised public transport app that will show you the best options available to get to your accommodation.
Puebla to Mexico City by Car Rental
Car rental prices from Puebla to Mexico City start at around $29 (495 MXN) per day, including insurance. If you’re renting for three or more days, you might find even cheaper deals. However, if you’re planning to drop the car off in Mexico City instead of returning it to Puebla, be aware that one-way rentals usually come with higher fees.
For the cheapest car rental rates and an extensive selection of car rental companies, we recommend renting a car through Skyscanner.Car Rental tickets are available on Skyscanner.
Puebla to Mexico City by Minivan
A minivan ride from Puebla to Mexico City costs around $43 (750 MXN). The minivan journey takes about 1h, depending on traffic.
There is one company operating on this route: Turismo Tlaxcala.
What we like about this option is that it picks you up directly from your hotel and takes you straight to the airport. It saves you the hassle and extra cost of arranging separate transport.
Minivan schedule from Puebla to Mexico City
Minivan tickets are available on Bookaway.
Puebla to Mexico City by Private Transport
A private transfer from Puebla to Mexico City is the easiest and most convenient transport option. The journey takes 2-3h, and you’ll be dropped off right at your accommodation or the airport — no need to worry about extra transfers.
The taxi apps, Uber and Didi, are also available on this route. They are usually the most budget-friendly option, with prices starting at $78 (1,360 MXN) for a 4-seater. Split it with your group, and it’s about $40 (700 MXN) each.
If you prefer booking in advance, a platform like BookAway is a great choice. They’re very reliable but comes with a higher price tag, starting at $160 (2,800 MXN).
Private Transport tickets are available on Bookaway.
Our favourite places to stay in Mexico City
Here are our favourite places to stay in Mexico City for every budget.
Treat YourselfCasa Emilia
Staying at Casa Emilia will make you feel like you’re staying in a cosy jungle retreat, rather than in a massive metropolitan city. All of the spaces around the hotel are designed for ultimate comfort and luxury, which it certainly achieves. You can relax on the terrace, in access hall or in the hotel’s sunroom.
Two of our favourite experiences at the hotel are the delicious breakfast and the huge, comfy beds offering a great night’s sleep. If you’re looking to treat yourself, this is the place to do it.
- Incredible breakfast
- Cosy jungle design
- Bike rental available
- Excellent location
Double rooms start from $80 per night
Treat YourselfCasa Pancha
Located in the neighbourhood of Condesa, Casa Pancha mirrors the atmosphere of the area. The hotel’s culture is certainly one of its selling points, offering simplicity, originality, community and connection.
With a mixture of dorms and private rooms, it’s an easy place to meet people whilst maintaining privacy. The hotel is bright and natural throughout, with both a backyard and a balcony area to relax in. The staff are super friendly here and their love for the hotel quickly spreads through the space.
- Dorms and private rooms available
- Private garden and balcony
- Amazing staff
- Perfect location
Double rooms start from $80 per night
Mid-RangeStanza Hotel
If there’s any neighbourhood that you want to stay in Mexico City, La Roma should definitely be up there. And that’s where Stanza Hotel is located. It puts you close to the tree-lined streets that are brimming with hip cafes and bars.
The hotel rooms are clean and modern, offering everything that you could ask for. The beds are also huge and super comfy. If you don’t fancy leaving the hotel one night for dinner, the onsite restaurant serves delicious Mediterranean-Mexican fusion food.
- Great location
- Clean and modern rooms
- Onsite Mediterranean-Mexican fusion restaurant
- Helpful, English-speaking staff
Double rooms between $40-$80 per night
BudgetCasa Indigo
This place gets booked out fast (we’re talking months in advance)! The location is perfect and it’s super affordable. Casa Indigo is close to the historic centre, plus the rooms are clean and beautifully decorated.
The host, Salvador, will make your stay unforgettable with his friendliness and warm welcome. On top of all of that, you can enjoy a large roof terrace offering stunning views over Mexico City.
- Great location
- Huge roof terrace
- Friendly host
- Fully equipped kitchen
Double rooms between $15-$40 per night
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Why Visit Mexico City?
Mexico City is a destination that will keep any type of traveller entertained for days on end. Interesting history, rich culture, endless shopping and vibrant nightlife are just a few of the many things Mexico City has to offer.
A fun fact, with over 150 museums, Mexico City has the highest number of museums in the world. When you’re museumed-out, there are plenty of other things to do in Mexico City. Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral, explore Frida Kahlo's house, or take a boat trip along the canals of Xochimilco.
Rounding it up
That's the full picture for getting from Puebla to Mexico City, roughly 137 kilometres (85 miles) apart. In all, there are 4 ways to make the trip. The cheapest fare is $20 (345 MXN). The quickest trip takes 1h.
Prices and timetables change, so it's worth a quick check before you travel. Have a question, or travelled this route recently? Ask the community below and we'll do our best to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the distance from Puebla to Mexico City?
The distance from Puebla to Mexico City is 137 kilometres (85 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Puebla to Mexico City?
The fastest way to get from Puebla to Mexico City is by minivan and takes 1h.
What is the cheapest way to get from Puebla to Mexico City?
The cheapest way to get from Puebla to Mexico City is by bus with ticket costs starting from 345 MXN.
About the Authors
Founder & Trip Planning Expert
Based in Bali, Maarten's passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you'll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.
Senior Travel Writer
Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she's not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines. Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she'll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
Travel Writer
A writer and full-time mom who loves planning beach trips. London is her favourite destination.
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