Is it Safe to Drive to Tijuana from San Diego?

Many thousands of people drive between San Diego and Tijuana every day. Most of them are daily commuters and not tourists.

Your U.S. driver’s license is valid across the border. However, driving in Mexico can be challenging. Traffic lights and signs aren’t always operable or in clear view.

Caution!

• Potholes and narrow streets are common hazards, and traffic laws are not always respected.
• Taxi drivers are known for ignoring traffic lights and reckless speeding.

Tip.

If you choose to drive your vehicle into Mexico,

• Check with your auto insurance company to make sure your coverage is valid there.
• Always drive with your windows up and your doors locked.
• Park at your hotel or in an attended parking lot.

Review the State Department’s webpage on driving abroad for up-to-date concerns and safety tips.

Is it Safe to Drive to Tijuana Alone?

If you follow basic safety precautions, you can safely drive to Tijuana alone. Note that Greyhound offers an inexpensive bus service from San Diego to Tijuana that may be a quicker and safer way to travel than driving alone.

Is it Safe to Fly to Tijuana?

Yes! Tijuana International Airport (TIU) has round-the-clock security and can be more convenient than flying into San Diego. The airport has two concourses, 23 gates, and passenger services including shops, a food court, and money exchange offices.

How to Get to Tijuana Airport (TIJ) from San Diego?

In the majority of the cases, the San Diego airport (SAN) is preferred by Canadians and Americans. This is because of plenty of cheaper flights.

• To fly to Tijuana, you have to fill out Forma Migratoria Multiple form (FMM) form available at the airport. FMM is also called the Mexico Tourist Card.
• The Cross Border Xpress pedestrian bridge also allows access to San Diego for those flying in and out of Tijuana.

City buses, radio-dispatched taxi cabs, and Transporte Terrestre taxis are safe options to travel from Tijuana airport to your hotel. Uber and Lyft are other safe options, as they verify the driver and vehicle number.

We have a complimentary pickup and drop-off for most of the patients. The journey from the San Diego airport to our medical and dental medical facilities is less than 30 mins

Is it Safe to Walk to Tijuana?

It is safe to walk across the border to Tijuana. Pedestrian crossings are a common way to travel between San Diego and Tijuana. There are three places where you can travel on foot from San Diego County into Tijuana:

• PedWest (Near the Outlets at the Border)
• PedEast (Near the San Ysidro trolley stop)
• Otay Mesa

There are commercial parking lots on the U.S. side of the border where you can safely leave your car. Or, a trolley, rideshare, taxi, or bus can drop you off near one of the bridges.

You will see people walking everywhere in Tijuana but use caution walking in Mexico. Sidewalks are often in disrepair and may contain deep cracks or other trip hazards.

Is Tijuana Safe for a Day Trip?

Yes, Tijuana is safe for a day trip.

• Millions of Americans have taken day trips to Tijuana. Revolution Avenue (also called Avenida Revolucion or La Revu) is the heart of the city and the perfect focus for a day trip.
• Visit art galleries, open markets, and a wide variety of restaurants and food carts.

Tijuana at Night

How safe is Tijuana at night?

That depends on where you are. It’s recommended to stay at your hotel after dark. Also, while it is overall safe to drive to Tijuana, it’s better not to drive at night. Try to schedule flights to arrive during the day.

Is Tijuana red light district safe?

It is best to avoid the red light district and anywhere that prostitution or drug use is happening.

• Organized crime is prevalent in the Zona Norte red light district and the Calle Coahuila area. Your chances of becoming a victim are greatly elevated there.
• If you do venture out in the early evening, never accept drinks from strangers and limit your alcohol consumption.
• Try to return to your hotel before nightfall.

Is it safe to go to Rosarito?

Rosarito is a lovely beach town 20 minutes south of Tijuana. It is a safe place to visit and worth the time to watch the surfers. The town is populated by many American retirees and has a relaxed, bohemian vibe.

Ensenada is another relaxed, scenic beach town south of Rosarito and is a safe addition to a day trip.

How Safe is Tijuana Dining?

Tijuana is famous for its food scene. It brings together the best foods from all over Mexico. In addition, Americanized burgers and other familiar cuisine options are available everywhere. Still, it is common to be concerned about food safety when traveling internationally.

Is Tijuana dangerous for dining out?

While food poisoning can be an issue anywhere on the globe, dining out is generally safe in Tijuana.

You can choose from street taco stands to upscale fine dining establishments. One key to safe dining is to go where you see lots of people congregating.

You can also:

• Stand back and observe how a street vendor prepares food for others before deciding to order. If you think their health standards are low, move on to another location.
• Never buy popsicles or unbottled drinks from street vendors, as they’re usually made with tap water. Restaurants are required to serve safe, filtered water.
• Tap water is never safe to drink in Tijuana. Stick to bottled water, bottled sodas, or beer instead.
• Online reviews are your friend when deciding where to eat in Tijuana. Take the time to read comments and look for those warning of adverse reactions to the food or drink.

Is it Safe to go to Tijuana Alone?

Is it dangerous to travel to Tijuana alone?

Tijuana has calmed down somewhat in recent years, as Tourist Police and others have worked to lower travel risks. Travelers often return from Mexico commenting on how kindhearted, loving, and hardworking they found Mexico’s citizens.

Tijuana is a good place to travel solo to Mexico, as it has a heavy American influence. You are likely to feel at home as most people speak English and accept American currency.

Is it safe to visit Tijuana attractions alone?

While it’s always best to travel with a companion, many visitors enjoy Tijuana’s attractions alone. Just be extra vigilant of your surroundings and only venture out alone during the daytime and in known safe areas.

Regardless of whether you’re traveling to Tijuana alone or with a companion, it’s smart to brush up on your Spanish. Knowing a few keywords can help you communicate in any scenario. Memorize these basic words and phrases:

• Hola: Hello
• Como estas: How are you, what’s up?
• Cuanto: How much
• Donde: Where
• Bano: Bathroom, toilet
• Gracias: Thank you