Visa and Mastercard enjoy the broadest acceptance. American Express is accepted at major hotels and some restaurants but less commonly elsewhere. Discover cards have limited acceptance in Mexico.
Before traveling, notify your bank of your travel dates to prevent fraud holds on your card. Cards with no foreign transaction fees offer savings on every purchase. Check that your PIN works internationally if you plan to use ATMs.
Small restaurants (known as "fondas" or "cocinas economicas"), market vendors, and taxi drivers typically accept only cash. For security, avoid carrying large amounts and keep cash in multiple locations. Most hotels can provide cash advances against credit cards if needed.
Related Questions
- What Is Mexico's Currency?
- Where Can I Exchange Money in Mexico?
- How Much Cash Should I Carry in Mexico?
- How Much Are Meals, Drinks, Taxis and Other Daily Expenses in Mexico?
- What Kinds of Gifts and Souvenirs Can I Find in Mexico?
- Should I Leave Tips in Mexico?
- Are There Tourist Taxes in Mexico?
Insider-led Mexico Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
