City in Baja California, Mexico
Tijuana
Big border city with a strong food and craft-beer scene, easy San Diego access and dental clinics. Cartel violence, long border waits and rough districts need care.
At a glance
- Safety3/5Take real precautionsDetails
- Monthly budget$1,430–2,200Comfortable, one person · MX$26,000–40,000Details
- Value for money51/100Better value than 50% of places we coverDetails
- Best time to goApr–May, Sep–NovWarmest: Aug, 31°CDetails
- Air quality20 µg/m³PM2.5 annual average (2018) · PollutedDetails
- Internet118 MbpsFixed broadband, Mexico medianDetails
- Tap waterNo, drink bottledDrink purified water.Details
- LGBTQ+4/5WelcomingDetails
- Solo travel3/5English: widely spokenDetails
- Doctor's visit$22–49Private clinic, without insuranceDetails
- Getting aroundUberYou'll need transportDetails
- Cash or cardCards almost everywhereCards work almost everywhere; many places also accept US dollars, usually at a poor rate.Details
Where to stay in Tijuana
Areas visitors base themselves in.
| Area | Good for |
|---|---|
| Zona Río | Business district, malls, restaurants and the Cultural Center |
| Playas de Tijuana | Beach life and quieter streets by the sea |
| Telefónica and Colonia Cacho | Food scene, craft beer and creative spaces |
| Avenida Revolución and Centro | Tourist strip, nightlife and bars |
Apps that work in Tijuana
Ride-hailing
- Maps: Google Maps
- Messaging: WhatsApp
- Google Translate: Spanish menus and conversations
- Taxis: Use apps for every trip. Border-side taxis charge in USD and can overcharge; agree the price or walk to a rideshare pickup.
Cash, cards and tipping
What to carry and how to pay. Money in Mexico.
- Cards almost everywhere Cards work almost everywhere; many places also accept US dollars, usually at a poor rate. Carry pesos for taxis, markets and tips.
- 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
Going to Tijuana solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in Tijuana meet up for small plans: coffee, dinners, walks and day trips. Join one, or start your own in a minute.
Sources
- Tijuana International Airport (Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico)
- Cross Border Xpress
- US CBP border wait times
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.