We live in Roma Norte. We walk these streets every day. And right now, in March 2026, Mexico City is in the middle of tearing itself apart to look good for the World Cup.
If you&#39;re planning to come to CDMX in the next few months — whether for the tournament, for remote work, or just to travel — here&#39;s what you&#39;ll actually find when you land. No sugarcoating.
<h2>The streets are a construction zone</h2>
Walk around Roma Norte right now and you&#39;ll see it immediately: sidewalks ripped open, exposed pipes, orange barriers, dust everywhere. The city is rebuilding streets, repaving roads, and upgrading infrastructure across the central neighborhoods ahead of the FIFA World Cup kicking off in June.
It&#39;s not just Roma Norte. Condesa, Juárez, the Centro Histórico, and the roads leading to Estadio Azteca — they&#39;re all getting work done at the same time. The result is a city that feels like it&#39;s under renovation from every angle.
The dust is real. If you have allergies or sensitive lungs, bring a mask for walking around during the day. Some blocks are worse than others — the construction moves section by section, so one week your street is fine and the next week it&#39;s a pit.
Our honest recommendation: if you can, come AFTER the World Cup month (July onwards). By then, the construction should be mostly done, the streets will be freshly paved, and you&#39;ll get to enjoy the upgraded version of the city without the chaos of building it. The city is going to look incredible once it&#39;s finished — it&#39;s just not finished yet.
If you&#39;re coming during the construction period (now through June), don&#39;t let it stop you. The city is still fully functional, restaurants and cafés are open, the Metro works, and the neighborhoods are alive. You&#39;ll just need to dodge some orange cones and deal with dustier-than-usual streets.
<h2>Safety: better than you think</h2>
Here&#39;s something that might surprise first-time visitors: Mexico City feels safe.
We&#39;ve lived here for over four years and hosted 280+ guests from all over the world. The most common thing our guests say after their first day is: &quot;I expected it to feel more dangerous than this.&quot;
The central neighborhoods — Roma Norte, Condesa, Narvarte, Juárez, Polanco — are walkable, well-lit, and full of people at all hours. There&#39;s police presence, there are security cameras, and the streets are active from morning until late at night. It feels more like Barcelona or Buenos Aires than what most people imagine when they think &quot;Mexico City.&quot;
Our strong recommendation: stay in Roma Norte, Condesa, or Narvarte. These neighborhoods are safe, walkable, and have everything a remote worker or traveler needs within a few blocks — cafés, restaurants, grocery stores, coworking spaces, parks, and excellent Metro access. You don&#39;t need a car. You don&#39;t need to take taxis everywhere. You walk.
That said, common sense applies everywhere:
<ul>
<li>Don&#39;t flash expensive electronics on empty streets late at night</li>
<li>Use Uber or Didi instead of hailing random taxis (especially at night)</li>
<li>Keep your phone in your front pocket in crowded Metro cars</li>
<li>Stay in the neighborhoods you know, especially if you&#39;re new</li>
</ul>
But honestly? Most of our guests feel safer here than they expected. The vibe is relaxed, people are friendly, and the neighborhoods where digital nomads and travelers stay are genuinely comfortable.
<h2>Watch out for protests and street closures</h2>
This is something no travel guide mentions but you&#39;ll experience it if you&#39;re here for more than a few days: teacher union demonstrations regularly block major streets in CDMX.
Right now (March 2026), the CNTE (teachers&#39; union from several states) has been holding protests near the city center. When they demonstrate, they block transit on major avenues — and the ripple effect is brutal.
We&#39;ve had several days recently where Paseo de la Reforma — one of the city&#39;s main arteries — was completely gridlocked because protesters were blocking intersections. If you have a meeting, a flight, or anywhere you need to be on time, check the news that morning.
Practical tips for dealing with protests:
<ul>
<li>Follow <a href="https://x.com/ABORDONMX">@ABORDONMX</a> or <a href="https://x.com/LOSMOCHILEROS_">@LOSMOCHILEROS_</a> on X/Twitter — they post real-time traffic and protest alerts for CDMX</li>
<li>Google Maps usually updates traffic quickly when major roads are blocked</li>
<li>If Reforma is blocked, everything between Centro and Chapultepec will be slow — plan alternative routes or just wait it out at a café</li>
<li>The Metro is your best friend when streets are blocked — it runs underground and isn&#39;t affected by surface protests</li>
<li>These protests are peaceful. You&#39;re not in danger — you&#39;re just stuck in traffic</li>
</ul>
This is part of daily life in Mexico City. Locals are used to it. Once you learn to check for it in the morning, you adjust quickly.
<h2>What this means for digital nomads and remote workers</h2>
If you&#39;re coming to CDMX to work remotely, here&#39;s the bottom line:
The good:
<ul>
<li>The city is safe in the central neighborhoods. We walk home at midnight regularly.</li>
<li>Wi-Fi in apartments and cafés is fast and reliable — this hasn&#39;t changed.</li>
<li>The cost of living is still excellent for anyone earning in USD or EUR.</li>
<li>The food, culture, and social scene are as good as everyone says.</li>
<li>The city will look amazing once the World Cup renovations are done.</li>
</ul>
The temporary inconveniences:
<ul>
<li>Street construction makes some sidewalks dusty and noisy during the day.</li>
<li>The airport (AICM) is also under major renovation — <a href="/en/cdmx-nomad/airport-transportation-cdmx">read our AICM guide</a>.</li>
<li>Occasional protest-related traffic jams on Reforma and nearby avenues.</li>
<li>Some streets may have detours or temporary closures in your neighborhood.</li>
</ul>
None of these are dealbreakers. They&#39;re inconveniences that last a few months. The city underneath is still one of the best places in the world for remote workers — affordable, walkable, culturally rich, and incredibly welcoming to foreigners.
<h2>Best neighborhoods to stay (and why)</h2>
<h3>Roma Norte</h3>
The heart of the digital nomad scene. Art deco architecture, the best café density in the city, walkable to everything. Our Roma Norte loft is here — <a href="/en/roma-norte/coffee-shops-remote-work">5-minute walk to the best coffee shops</a>. Construction is happening on some streets but the neighborhood is fully operational.
<h3>Condesa</h3>
Adjacent to Roma Norte, slightly calmer and greener. Parque México is beautiful for morning runs. More residential, slightly more expensive. Great for people who want a quieter base.
<h3>Narvarte</h3>
Our second neighborhood. Calmer, more local, less touristy. Near the hospital district and Parque Delta. Excellent Metro access. Significantly cheaper than Roma Norte or Condesa. Great for longer stays where you want to save money without sacrificing comfort.
<h3>Where NOT to stay</h3>
Tepito, Doctores (parts of it), La Merced late at night, and areas far from Metro lines if you don&#39;t have a car. Stick to the neighborhoods above and you&#39;ll have a great experience.
<h2>The World Cup timeline</h2>
Here&#39;s what to expect over the next few months:
Now through May 2026: Peak construction. Streets being rebuilt, airport under renovation, dust and noise. The city is hustling to get everything ready.
June 2026: World Cup begins (June 11). Construction pauses. The city will be packed with fans, prices will spike, and the energy will be electric. Amazing to experience but not ideal for quiet remote work.
July 2026 onwards: The sweet spot. Construction mostly done, World Cup crowds gone, freshly renovated streets and infrastructure. This is when the city will shine. If you can time your visit, this is it.
<hr>
<blockquote>
Planning your CDMX stay? Our apartments in Roma Norte and Narvarte are set up for remote workers — fast Wi-Fi, dedicated workspace, self check-in, and monthly discounts. We&#39;ll help you navigate the construction, the airport, and everything else.
<a href="https://stayworkcdmx.com?utm_source=rincones&#038;utm_medium=blog&#038;utm_campaign=world-cup-cdmx&#038;utm_content=end-cta">→ See all listings on StayWork CDMX</a>
</blockquote>
<hr>
Last updated: March 22, 2026. We update this post as the situation evolves. The World Cup starts June 11.
Written by Agustín &amp; Analí — hosts of <a href="https://stayworkcdmx.com?utm_source=rincones&#038;utm_medium=blog&#038;utm_campaign=world-cup-cdmx&#038;utm_content=author-box">StayWork CDMX</a> with 280+ guest reviews. We live in Roma Norte and deal with the construction dust every day.

We live in Roma Norte and the city is tearing itself apart to get ready for the 2026 World Cup. Dusty streets, blocked roads, teacher protests — but also one of the safest and most exciting cities for digital nomads. Here’s the honest picture.

Mexico City Right Now Is a Beautiful Mess. Here’s What to Expect Before the World Cup.

We&#39;ve hosted over 280 digital nomads and remote workers in Roma Norte. The first question every guest asks: &quot;Where should I work from when I don&#39;t feel like staying at the apartment?&quot;
After four years of living here, these are the cafés we actually send our guests to — ranked by how well they work as a remote office, not just how good the latte art is.
<h2>What we looked for</h2>
Not every great café is a great place to work. We ranked these on what actually matters to remote workers: reliable Wi-Fi, available power outlets, comfortable seating for 2+ hours, reasonable noise levels, and a culture where laptops are welcome. Ratings and review counts are from Google Maps as of March 2026.
<hr>
<h2>1. Boicot Café — The unofficial nomad HQ</h2>
If Roma Norte had a default coworking café, this would be it. Boicot has indoor and outdoor seating, a massive menu that goes well beyond coffee, and a vibe that welcomes laptop workers without making you feel guilty about nursing a single cold brew for three hours.
The cold brew flights are a nice touch — you can sample their full range while you work through your inbox. The food menu is large enough that you can have breakfast, lunch, and still be here for an afternoon coffee.
What guests say on Google Maps:
<blockquote>
&quot;A charming, trendy spot that perfectly blends a cozy atmosphere with serious coffee culture — an ideal place to get some work done. The free Wi-Fi and ample seating are a huge plus.&quot;
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
&quot;The design is well thought out — plants bordering the outdoor tables create space between traffic and diners. The music is a mix of energetic reggae, motown, and Latin acoustic.&quot;
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
&quot;They have English menus and indoor and outdoor seating. It&#39;s a really cool vibe.&quot;
</blockquote>
Address: Jalapa 99, Roma Norte 
Hours: Mon–Fri 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM · Sat–Sun 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM 
Rating: 4.4★ (3,900+ reviews) 
Wi-Fi: Yes, free · Outlets: Yes 
Best for: Full work days, team meetings, long sessions 
Walk from StayWork loft: ~8 min
<hr>
<h2>2. Cardinal Casa de Café — Best pour-over in the neighborhood</h2>
Cardinal is where you go when you care about the coffee as much as the work. They specialize in manual brewing — V60, Chemex, AeroPress — with rotating Mexican micro-lots. The space is open-air with a calm atmosphere that&#39;s ideal for deep focus work.
Reviewers consistently praise the baristas&#39; craft. One visitor stopped in half an hour before closing and the barista still took the time to make a careful pour-over — that tells you everything about the culture here.
What guests say on Google Maps:
<blockquote>
&quot;My absolute FAVORITE coffee shop! If you&#39;re there, ask for Edgar — he is the BEST barista in Mexico. Hidden gem and MUST try.&quot;
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
&quot;Beautifully light and fruity pour-over. It was a treat to savor it in the open space with the evening breeze flowing through.&quot;
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
&quot;Cute, quiet little coffee shop in a nice neighborhood. For both the latte and pastry the cost was about $3.50 USD.&quot;
</blockquote>
Address: Córdoba 132, Roma Norte 
Hours: Mon–Sat 7:30 AM – 8:30 PM · Sun 9:00 AM – 8:30 PM 
Rating: 4.5★ (1,449 reviews) 
Wi-Fi: Yes, free · Outlets: Yes 
Best for: Deep focus work, solo sessions, afternoon writing 
Walk from StayWork loft: ~5 min
<hr>
<h2>3. CUMBÉ Coffee Roasters — The quiet one</h2>
CUMBÉ is small, tucked away, and exactly what you want when you need to take a video call without background noise. Multiple reviewers specifically mention it as a great spot for remote workers who need to concentrate. It&#39;s pet-friendly, the pastries are excellent, and the wooden interior feels more like a private study than a busy café.
If Boicot is the open-plan office, CUMBÉ is the private room.
What guests say on Google Maps:
<blockquote>
&quot;This is a great spot if you need to take a call or work on your computer. It&#39;s also pet friendly. Lots of pastries to choose from.&quot;
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
&quot;Cozy, cute, and relaxing coffee spot with friendly baristas and a nice atmosphere to hang out.&quot;
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
&quot;Really good coffee and insane pastries! I had the guava queso pastry and it was unreal.&quot;
</blockquote>
Address: Monterrey 82, Roma Sur (bordering Roma Norte) 
Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM 
Rating: 4.7★ (1,242 reviews) 
Wi-Fi: Yes, free · Outlets: Yes 
Best for: Video calls, focused writing, quiet mornings 
Walk from StayWork loft: ~10 min
<hr>
<h2>4. Cibeles Gran Café — Best outdoor terrace for work</h2>
Cibeles has one of the best outdoor setups in Roma Norte — shaded, spacious, and perfect for those days when you want to feel the sun while you work. Reviewers consistently mention outlets and Wi-Fi, plus the staff is notably friendly and attentive.
The chilaquiles are legendary. Come for a working brunch and you&#39;ll probably stay until mid-afternoon.
What guests say on Google Maps:
<blockquote>
&quot;One of the best outdoor spots in town — perfect for a laid-back, relaxing afternoon. The service is excellent, warm, and truly makes you feel at home.&quot;
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
&quot;Absolutely spectacular cajeta latte — possibly the best latte I&#39;ve ever had. Outlets and WiFi, which is always awesome.&quot;
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
&quot;Reasonable prices, English menu available without gringo markup prices, attentive staff.&quot;
</blockquote>
Address: Durango 195, Roma Norte 
Hours: Mon–Fri 7:30 AM – 9:00 PM · Sat 8:30 AM – 10:00 PM · Sun 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM 
Rating: 4.6★ (1,267 reviews) 
Wi-Fi: Yes, free · Outlets: Yes 
Best for: Working brunches, outdoor sessions, Zoom-free afternoons 
Walk from StayWork loft: ~12 min
<hr>
<blockquote>
Staying in Roma Norte? Our apartments are designed for remote workers — fast Wi-Fi, a dedicated desk with a 27&quot; QHD monitor, and self check-in. For the days you don&#39;t feel like café-hopping, your workspace is already set up.
<a href="https://stayworkcdmx.com/en/chic-nomad-loft---roma-norte-office-fast-wi-fi?utm_source=rincones&#038;utm_medium=blog&#038;utm_campaign=roma-norte-coffee&#038;utm_content=mid-cta-box">→ See our Roma Norte loft on StayWork CDMX</a>
</blockquote>
<hr>
<h2>5. Buna — Café Rico — Best pastries + coffee combo</h2>
Buna is a Roma Norte institution. The almond croissant has been called the best in the city by multiple reviewers, and the coffee is strong enough to fuel a full morning of work. Seating is mostly outdoor under lush greenery, which makes for a beautiful workspace but means it can get loud on weekends.
Come on a weekday morning for the best work setup. By Saturday, it&#39;s more of a brunch destination.
What guests say on Google Maps:
<blockquote>
&quot;My favorite coffee place in Roma Norte. The almond croissant is the best in the city — trust me, I tried a lot of them.&quot;
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
&quot;Cozy café with a lush outdoor setting and smooth, delicious coffee. An ideal spot to relax!&quot;
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
&quot;Excellent iced latte and croissant! I&#39;ve tried a few other places and this one is for sure my favorite in CDMX.&quot;
</blockquote>
Address: Orizaba 42, Roma Norte 
Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM 
Rating: 4.5★ (1,635 reviews) 
Wi-Fi: Yes, free · Outlets: Limited 
Best for: Morning work sessions, coffee + pastry fuel, weekday visits 
Walk from StayWork loft: ~6 min
<hr>
<h2>6. Libertario Coffee Roasters — Best drip coffee</h2>
Libertario is serious about coffee. They roast in-house, the baristas know their craft, and the drip coffee here is noticeably better than the espresso. The space is large and industrial-chic, with a mix of communal tables and smaller spots. It&#39;s connected to the Luca hotel, which gives it a slightly more polished feel than the average Roma Norte café.
What guests say on Google Maps:
<blockquote>
&quot;Their drip coffee is way better than latte! This is the perfect spot for a remote worker who needs outlets, stable wifi and quiet space.&quot;
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
&quot;Really good coffee, huge delicious sandwiches. A bit on the pricier side, but you get your money&#39;s worth.&quot;
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
&quot;Nice place to hang out for a bit. Big open space that&#39;s pet friendly.&quot;
</blockquote>
Address: Orizaba 16, Roma Norte 
Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM 
Rating: 4.4★ (701 reviews) 
Wi-Fi: Yes, stable · Outlets: Yes 
Best for: Serious coffee drinkers, drip over espresso, afternoon sessions 
Walk from StayWork loft: ~5 min
<hr>
<h2>7. Cafebrería El Péndulo — The bookmark</h2>
This is not a typical remote work café — it&#39;s a bookstore with a café inside, and it&#39;s iconic. With 11,000+ reviews it&#39;s one of the most visited spots in Roma Norte. The barreled ceilings are beautiful, the food is solid, and it stays open until 11 PM (midnight on weekends).
Come here for a change of scenery when you need inspiration, not when you need to grind through spreadsheets. The vibe is more &quot;reading and sipping&quot; than &quot;laptop and headphones.&quot;
What guests say on Google Maps:
<blockquote>
&quot;Classic bookstore cafe experience. The architecture is beautiful with barreled ceilings. We have been twice and enjoy it each time.&quot;
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
&quot;Tasty food and I love the atmosphere — whether it&#39;s for lunch, dinner, or simply reading or studying. I&#39;ve been coming here for years.&quot;
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
&quot;A very charming spot with beautiful books, artwork, and a cozy atmosphere. The whole place gives you a warm, pleasant feeling.&quot;
</blockquote>
Address: Álvaro Obregón 86, Roma Norte 
Hours: Mon–Thu 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM · Fri–Sat 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM · Sun 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM 
Rating: 4.5★ (11,216 reviews) 
Wi-Fi: Yes · Outlets: Limited 
Best for: Creative work, reading, evening sessions, change of scenery 
Walk from StayWork loft: ~7 min
<hr>
<h2>Bonus: When you need a real desk — Privat.MX CoWorking</h2>
If you need a full work day with reliable internet, private rooms, and zero distractions, Privat.MX is the best value coworking in Roma Norte.
What members say on Google Maps:
<blockquote>
&quot;Great coworking space. Wifi worked well. Free coffee. Great atmosphere with a back patio. Will definitely be back if I ever digital nomad in Mexico City again.&quot;
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
&quot;Spent 3 weeks working out of here and loved it. Weekly rate was $650 pesos, about 30 bucks. Great value. Endless coffee and lunch options nearby.&quot;
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
&quot;An awesome place to go heads down in Mexico City! Quiet space in a gorgeous neighborhood. Julietta is a gem and made us feel welcomed!&quot;
</blockquote>
Address: Córdoba 95, Roma Norte 
Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM · Sat 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM 
Rating: 4.8★ (68 reviews) 
Price: <del>$650 MXN/week (</del>$30 USD) 
Website: <a href="https://privat.mx">privat.mx</a>
<hr>
<h2>Tips for working from cafés in Roma Norte</h2>
Tipping: A 10–15% tip is standard in CDMX cafés. If you&#39;re camping for 3+ hours, consider ordering a second drink — it&#39;s good karma and keeps the staff happy.
Wi-Fi speed: Virtually every café in Roma Norte has free Wi-Fi. Speeds are generally good enough for video calls, but if you have a mission-critical presentation, work from your apartment or a coworking space.
Power outlets: Always check before you settle in. The cafés listed above all have outlets, but prime seats near plugs go fast — arrive before 9 AM on weekdays.
VPN: Use one. Public Wi-Fi in any country is public Wi-Fi. We recommend our guests set one up before arriving.
Don&#39;t be a laptop squatter: Order food, not just coffee. Rotate spots if you&#39;re working 8-hour days. The cafés that welcome nomads do so because nomads spend money — keep it that way.
<hr>
<h2>Where to stay in Roma Norte</h2>
If you&#39;re planning a longer stay in Roma Norte for remote work, our loft is set up specifically for digital nomads — a dedicated desk with a 27&quot; QHD monitor, fast Wi-Fi, rooftop pool, and self check-in. It&#39;s a 5–12 minute walk from every café on this list.
We offer monthly discounts for stays of 30+ days. Book direct for the best rates.
<a href="https://stayworkcdmx.com/en/chic-nomad-loft---roma-norte-office-fast-wi-fi?utm_source=rincones&#038;utm_medium=blog&#038;utm_campaign=roma-norte-coffee&#038;utm_content=end-cta">→ View our Roma Norte loft on StayWork CDMX</a>
<hr>
Written by Agustín &amp; Analí — hosts of <a href="https://stayworkcdmx.com?utm_source=rincones&#038;utm_medium=blog&#038;utm_campaign=roma-norte-coffee&#038;utm_content=author-box">StayWork CDMX</a> with 280+ guest reviews across Roma Norte and Narvarte. We&#39;ve lived in Roma Norte for 4+ years and have strong opinions about coffee.


<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex"></figure>

A local host’s guide to the best laptop-friendly cafés in Roma Norte, Mexico City. Real ratings, Wi-Fi info, outlets, hours — tested by hosts with 280+ guest reviews.

7 Best Coffee Shops in Roma Norte for Remote Work (2026)

&nbsp;
Last updated: March 22, 2026
If you&#8217;re flying into Mexico City right now, you need to be prepared. The AICM (Aeropuerto Internacional de la Ciudad de México) is simultaneously undergoing its biggest renovation in decades AND dealing with a fresh ban on Uber and Didi inside the terminals. The combination means longer waits, confusing detours, and significantly more walking than you&#8217;d expect.
We&#8217;ve hosted over 280 guests in Roma Norte and Narvarte. Airport arrival is the #1 thing people message us about before their trip. Here&#8217;s the honest, up-to-date guide.
<h2>The current situation (March 2026)</h2>
Two things happened at the same time:
<h3>1. Massive World Cup construction</h3>
Mexico is co-hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup this summer. The AICM is racing to finish a $9.2 billion MXN renovation before the tournament starts in June — and they&#8217;re nowhere near done.
As of March 2026, the renovation is roughly 40% complete. The airport director has publicly admitted that not all work will be finished before the World Cup. Over 2,000 workers are operating 24 hours a day across both terminals.
What this means for you as a passenger:
<ul>
<li>Blocked walkways and rerouted corridors in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2</li>
<li>Construction barriers, dust, and noise in several areas</li>
<li>Some boarding gates relocated or temporarily closed</li>
<li>Baggage claim carousels being replaced (28 of them)</li>
<li>Elevators and escalators out of service in several sections</li>
<li>Façade work on Terminal 1 has eliminated the sidewalk between doors 2–6 — you may have to walk on the road with your luggage</li>
<li>Signage is unreliable because things change week to week</li>
</ul>
Our advice: arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your flight. The construction makes everything take longer — security checkpoints, walking to gates, and finding your way through detoured corridors. Don&#8217;t cut it close.
<h3>2. Uber and Didi banned from picking up inside</h3>
On March 11, 2026, licensed taxi drivers blocked both terminals in a protest against ride-hailing apps. The government sided with the taxi drivers. Since March 12, the Guardia Nacional (National Guard) is permanently stationed at the AICM to prevent Uber and Didi from operating inside the airport&#8217;s federal zone.
This means:
<ul>
<li>Uber and Didi drivers cannot enter the terminal to pick you up</li>
<li>If a driver is caught picking up passengers inside, they risk losing their plates</li>
<li>The official airport taxis now have a near-monopoly on arrivals</li>
<li>Prices for official taxis have surged to $700–1,000 MXN ($35–50 USD) for a ride to Roma Norte — a trip that costs $80–150 MXN on Uber</li>
</ul>
The ban is not temporary. It was negotiated as a condition to prevent permanent taxi blockades during the World Cup.
<h2>How to get from AICM to Roma Norte (or Condesa / Narvarte)</h2>
Here are your four realistic options, ranked from cheapest to easiest:
<h3>Option 1: Uber or Didi — still works, but you have to walk out</h3>
This is what most of our guests do. Uber and Didi are NOT gone — you just can&#8217;t get picked up inside the terminal anymore. You need to walk outside the airport&#8217;s federal zone to a designated pickup area.
From Terminal 1:
<ol>
<li>Exit the terminal through any door</li>
<li>Walk toward Circuito Interior (Boulevard Puerto Aéreo)</li>
<li>Head toward Metro Terminal Aérea station (Línea 5)</li>
<li>The pickup zone is approximately 800–900 meters from the nearest terminal door</li>
<li>Open Uber or Didi and request your ride from there</li>
<li>Enter your terminal number and door in the app notes</li>
</ol>
From Terminal 2:
<ol>
<li>Exit through Puerta 1 (Door 1)</li>
<li>Walk to Eje 1 Norte / Avenida Fuerza Aérea Mexicana</li>
<li>The pickup bay is approximately 500 meters from the door — though some sources say up to 1,200 meters depending on which door you exit</li>
<li>Request your ride from there</li>
</ol>
Cost to Roma Norte: $80–150 MXN ($4–8 USD) 
Total time: 25–40 minutes (including the walk)
The reality check: You&#8217;ll be walking 500–900 meters with your luggage, potentially at night, past construction zones. The walk is on public roads and generally safe, but it&#8217;s not the smooth arrival experience you might expect. If you&#8217;re arriving at 2 AM with heavy bags after a 10-hour flight, think about whether the $600+ savings is worth it.
Pro tips:
<ul>
<li>Install Uber AND Didi before you fly — have both as backup</li>
<li>Download CDMX offline maps in Google Maps (airport Wi-Fi is unreliable)</li>
<li>Get a Mexican eSIM before you land (Airalo or Holafly) so you have data immediately</li>
<li>Request UberX or Didi Express for the best price</li>
<li>Surge pricing hits hard between 6–9 PM and Sunday evenings</li>
</ul>
<h3>Option 2: Official airport taxi — expensive but zero hassle</h3>
Licensed taxi booths are inside both terminals. You buy a ticket at the counter, tell them your destination, and walk to the taxi stand.
Cost to Roma Norte: $700–1,000 MXN ($35–50 USD) 
Total time: 15–25 minutes
Yes, you&#8217;re paying 5–10x more than Uber for the exact same 10 km trip. That price difference is exactly why the taxi drivers fought so hard to ban apps from the terminals — and why the government backed them.
When this makes sense: Late-night arrivals, heavy luggage, first-time visitors who don&#8217;t want to navigate construction zones in the dark, or anyone who values a stress-free arrival over saving money. No judgment — after a long flight, sometimes you just want to be in bed as fast as possible.
<h3>Option 3: Pre-arranged private transfer</h3>
Several companies offer meet-and-greet service inside the terminal with a name sign. You book in advance, they handle everything.
Cost: $400–600 MXN ($20–30 USD) 
Total time: 15–25 minutes, zero walking
This is the sweet spot between Uber prices and official taxi convenience. We can arrange this for our StayWork CDMX guests — just send us your flight number when you book.
<h3>Option 4: Metro — cheapest, with caveats</h3>
Metro Terminal Aérea (Línea 5) connects to the airport. From there you can reach Roma Norte via transfers.
Cost: $5 MXN ($0.25 USD) 
Total time: 40–60 minutes with transfers
Honest take: We don&#8217;t recommend this if you&#8217;re arriving with luggage larger than a backpack, at night, or on your first visit. The Metro is safe during daytime rush hours but the transfers with suitcases through crowded stations are not fun. It&#8217;s a great system once you&#8217;re settled — just not ideal for airport arrival.
<h2>Quick comparison</h2>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Option</th>
<th>Cost (to Roma Norte)</th>
<th>Time</th>
<th>Walk with luggage?</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Uber / Didi</td>
<td>$80–150 MXN</td>
<td>25–40 min</td>
<td>500–900m walk to pickup</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Private transfer</td>
<td>$400–600 MXN</td>
<td>15–25 min</td>
<td>None — they meet you inside</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Official taxi</td>
<td>$700–1,000 MXN</td>
<td>15–25 min</td>
<td>None</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Metro</td>
<td>$5 MXN</td>
<td>40–60 min</td>
<td>Stairs and transfers</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2>What to expect inside the airport right now</h2>
Based on current reports (March 2026) and feedback from our recent guests:
Terminal 1:
<ul>
<li>Façade work between doors 2–6 has eliminated the sidewalk — you walk on the road</li>
<li>Boarding gates in module 5 (gates 24–28) under renovation</li>
<li>Baggage claim belts 1–3 being replaced</li>
<li>New security screening equipment being installed (should be faster once done)</li>
<li>Construction dust and noise in several corridors</li>
<li>The Aerotrén (inter-terminal train) station is under renovation</li>
</ul>
Terminal 2:
<ul>
<li>Boarding lounges in the north and south wings under renovation</li>
<li>Parking structure being upgraded (new signage, colored floors by level)</li>
<li>New digital signage screens installed in some areas</li>
<li>International baggage claim area under construction</li>
<li>Bathroom renovations across multiple levels</li>
</ul>
Both terminals:
<ul>
<li>Rerouted walking paths with temporary barriers</li>
<li>Some commercial areas closed or relocated</li>
<li>Floors, ceilings, walls being replaced in phases</li>
<li>Electrical, plumbing, and drainage systems being overhauled</li>
<li>2,000+ workers active 24/7</li>
</ul>
The construction is scheduled to pause between late May and July 2026 during the World Cup, then resume until the end of the year. If you&#8217;re visiting during the tournament, the airport should be calmer but still not fully finished.
<h2>Before you fly: preparation checklist</h2>
<ul>
<li><input disabled="disabled" type="checkbox" /> Download Uber AND Didi apps, add payment method</li>
<li><input disabled="disabled" type="checkbox" /> Download Google Maps offline map for Mexico City</li>
<li><input disabled="disabled" type="checkbox" /> Get an eSIM (Airalo, Holafly) or plan to buy a Telcel SIM at the airport ($150–200 MXN)</li>
<li><input disabled="disabled" type="checkbox" /> Have $1,000 MXN cash as backup (some taxis and shuttles are cash-only)</li>
<li><input disabled="disabled" type="checkbox" /> Know your terminal number (check your airline)</li>
<li><input disabled="disabled" type="checkbox" /> Tell your host your flight number and arrival time</li>
<li><input disabled="disabled" type="checkbox" /> Leave extra time — arrive 3 hours before departure flights</li>
<li><input disabled="disabled" type="checkbox" /> Pack light or use a backpack if you plan to walk to the Uber pickup</li>
</ul>
<h2>Once you&#8217;re in Roma Norte, you won&#8217;t need taxis again</h2>
This is the silver lining. The airport transfer is the one painful moment of arriving in Mexico City. Once you&#8217;re in Roma Norte, everything is walkable — cafés, coworking spaces, restaurants, groceries, Metro stations. Our guests rarely take a taxi or Uber during their stay because the neighborhood is that well-connected on foot.
The airport chaos is temporary. Your stay in Roma Norte won&#8217;t be.
<hr />
<blockquote>Landing soon? Our Roma Norte loft is 20 minutes from AICM. Fast Wi-Fi, a dedicated desk with a 27&#8243; QHD monitor, rooftop pool, and self check-in — so you can arrive on your own schedule, even at 2 AM after fighting through airport construction.
<a href="https://stayworkcdmx.com/en/chic-nomad-loft---roma-norte-office-fast-wi-fi?utm_source=rincones&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=aicm-airport&amp;utm_content=end-cta">→ See our Roma Norte loft on StayWork CDMX</a></blockquote>
<hr />
Last updated: March 22, 2026. The airport situation is evolving rapidly. We update this post as new information becomes available. The World Cup starts June 11 — expect further changes.
Written by Agustín &amp; Analí — hosts of <a href="https://stayworkcdmx.com?utm_source=rincones&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=aicm-airport&amp;utm_content=author-box">StayWork CDMX</a> with 280+ guest reviews. We&#8217;ve navigated AICM arrivals more times than we can count.

Mexico City’s airport is under massive construction for the 2026 World Cup. Uber and Didi are banned from picking up inside. Here’s what to expect when you land and how to get to Roma Norte, Condesa, or Narvarte without overpaying.

Mexico City Guides for Digital Nomads & Travelers

All English guides

Browse by area

cdmx nomad

roma norte