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Money & currency

Money in Mexico

Updated 2026-09-22

Money & Currency
$

Mexican Peso (MXN)

Currency code: MXN

Practical Money Tips

Mexico uses the Mexican peso (MXN)

The local currency is the Mexican peso (MXN), one of the most traded currencies in the world. The exchange rate is roughly 18–19 MXN per euro. The peso uses the same $ symbol as the US dollar — prices in Mexico marked with $ are in pesos unless specifically noted as USD. Exchange euros or US dollars at banks (Banamex, BBVA, Santander, Banorte) or casas de cambio in airports, tourist areas, and city centres. Airport rates are less favourable; exchange only what you need on arrival and find better rates in town.

ATMs widely available — use bank ATMs

ATMs are ubiquitous across Mexico, from major cities to small towns. Stick to ATMs inside bank branches (Banamex/Citibanamex, BBVA, Santander, Banorte, HSBC) for security. Avoid standalone street ATMs, which carry higher skimming risk. Most accept Visa, Mastercard, and Maestro. Withdrawals are in pesos. Your bank may charge a foreign ATM fee plus a currency conversion charge; check before travel.

Cards accepted in cities and tourist areas

Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, shops, and supermarkets in cities and tourist destinations. Contactless payments are common in modern establishments. American Express has more limited acceptance. In smaller towns, markets, street food stalls, and local transport (colectivos, taxis), cash is essential. Mexico has one of the world's highest card fraud rates — monitor your statements.

Always carry pesos for everyday transactions

Despite growing card acceptance, Mexico remains substantially cash-dependent. Carry pesos for markets, street food, tips, taxis, local buses, tolls, and small shops. US dollars are accepted in major tourist zones (Cancun, Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta) but at poor exchange rates and rarely elsewhere. Keep small bills (20, 50, 100 MXN) — many vendors cannot break 500 or 1,000 peso notes.

Note: Always check current exchange rates before traveling. Currency exchange is available at airports, banks, and authorized money changers.

Common Money Questions

What currency should I bring to Mexico?

US dollars or euros. US dollars get slightly better exchange rates and are more widely accepted for direct payment in tourist areas. Euros exchange easily at banks and casas de cambio but are not accepted for direct payment. Bring a mix of cash and use ATMs for pesos.

Can I use my European bank card in Mexico?

Yes. Visa and Mastercard work at ATMs and most card terminals. Maestro cards work at some bank ATMs (Citibanamex, BBVA). Notify your bank before travel to avoid fraud blocks. Check foreign-transaction fees — some banks charge 1.5–3% per transaction.

Is tipping expected in Mexico?

Yes, tipping is an integral part of Mexican service culture. In restaurants, 15–20% is standard (check if service is included — 'propina incluida'). Hotel porters: 20–50 MXN per bag. Housekeeping: 50–100 MXN/day. Tour guides: 100–200 MXN. Gas station attendants: 10–20 MXN. Parking attendants: 10–20 MXN. Always tip in pesos.

Is Mexico expensive for European travellers?

Mexico offers excellent value for Europeans. Budget travellers can manage on 30–50 EUR/day (hostels, street food, local transport). Mid-range comfort costs 60–120 EUR/day (boutique hotels, restaurants, tours). Luxury resorts in Cancun or Los Cabos range from 200–500+ EUR/night. Street food is extraordinarily affordable — a full taco meal costs 3–5 EUR.

What is the $ sign in Mexico — pesos or dollars?

The $ symbol in Mexico means Mexican pesos, not US dollars. US dollars are sometimes written as USD, US$, or Dls. If a price seems unexpectedly high (e.g., $500 for a taxi), it is almost certainly in pesos (approximately 25 EUR), not dollars. When in doubt, ask '¿pesos o dólares?'.

Entry rules, visa types and practical notes live on the Mexico overview.

This overview comes from Visaja's worldwide missions database (visaja.com), checked against official government sources; for binding answers, the mission itself always has the final word.