City in Morelos, Mexico
Cuernavaca
The 'city of eternal spring' 90 minutes from Mexico City, with Spanish schools, colonial gardens and weekend escapes. Easy to reach and mild; security in Morelos is mixed, and traffic is heavy.
At a glance
- Safety3/5Take real precautionsDetails
- Monthly budget$1,210–1,920Comfortable, one person · MX$22,000–35,000Details
- Value for money56/100Better value than 55% of places we coverDetails
- Best time to goNov–MarWarmest: Apr, 32°CDetails
- Air quality15.3 µg/m³PM2.5 annual average (2022) · PollutedDetails
- Internet118 MbpsFixed broadband, Mexico medianDetails
- Tap waterNo, drink bottledDrink bottled or purified water.Details
- LGBTQ+4/5WelcomingDetails
- Solo travel4/5English: limitedDetails
- Doctor's visit$16–49Private clinic, without insuranceDetails
- Getting aroundUberWalkable centerDetails
- Cash or cardMixed: cards and cashCards in malls, chains and many restaurants; cash for markets, taxis, combis and small shops.Details
Where to stay in Cuernavaca
Areas visitors base themselves in.
| Area | Good for |
|---|---|
| Centro | Cathedral, Palacio de Cortés, Jardín Borda and walkable cafés |
| Las Palmas | Quiet residential streets, Spanish schools and long stays |
| Vista Hermosa | Upscale restaurants, villas and nightlife |
Apps that work in Cuernavaca
Ride-hailing
- Maps: Google Maps
- Messaging: WhatsApp
- Google Translate: Spanish menus and conversations
- Taxis: Taxis from sitios are usually safe; avoid hailing in the street at night. App rides are simplest for visitors.
Cash, cards and tipping
What to carry and how to pay. Money in Mexico.
- Mixed: cards and cash Cards in malls, chains and many restaurants; cash for markets, taxis, combis and small shops. Use bank-branch ATMs.
- Currency: Peso (MXN). US$1 ≈ MX$18.21 on 03 Oct 2026.
- ATMs: Bank ATMs charge foreign cards roughly MXN 30–150 per withdrawal; always decline the ATM's currency conversion.
- Tipping: 10–15% at restaurants (check whether service is already added), MXN 10–20 for gas attendants and grocery baggers; app rides optional.
- Paying by phone: Apple Pay and Google Pay work at many card terminals in cities; local bank transfers need a Mexican account.
Before you go
Visa and entry
- Air arrivals get a digital FMM (QR code) at immigration; the visitor fee is already included in your airfare.
- Officers set your stay and may grant fewer than 180 days; carry a return ticket, accommodation details and proof of funds.
- Land arrivals going beyond the border zone need an FMM; the visitor fee applies for stays over seven days.
Emergency numbers
Police 911 · Ambulance 911 · Fire 911 · Tourist police 078 · All emergencies 911
Plugs
Type A, B · 127 V, 60 Hz. Do I need an adapter?
SIM and eSIM
Telcel or AT&T SIMs at airports, OXXO stores and carrier shops, about MXN 100–300 with data. Bring your passport to register the line. eSIMs work for visitors.
More places in Mexico
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Sources
Prices are SoloSquare estimates; climate, air, safety and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.