A long layover in Ciudad Acuna is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Ciudad Acuña New International Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 40 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Before heading into Ciudad Acuna, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Mexico vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Ciudad Acuna is roughly 40 minutes from ACN via Taxi/Ride-share. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in MXN. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Getting from ACN to Ciudad Acuna
The most straightforward way into Ciudad Acuna is the Taxi/Ride-share, which takes about 40 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 60 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi/Ride-share is usually the smarter call.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Ciudad Acuna:
Transport to the city and back runs about $6 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $12 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $28 USD total.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Ciudad Acuna.
What’s Worth Seeing in Ciudad Acuna
For a layover visit to Ciudad Acuna, we’d suggest Presa de la Amistad (Amistad Dam) and Plaza BenjamÃn Canales. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Worth checking out if your schedule allows. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Ciudad Acuna.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at ACN, check out Main Terminal Waiting Area or Local Souvenir & Gift Kiosk to keep yourself occupied.
Food & Dining Options
In Ciudad Acuna
If you make it into town, Restaurante Los Compadres is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try El Costeñito Acuña.
Inside ACN
If you’re staying in the terminal, Aeropuerto Café & Deli is your main option. Grab & Go Kiosk works too if you want something quick.
Bag Storage Near ACN
Dedicated luggage storage at ACN may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Ciudad Acuna’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and ACN is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Ciudad Acuna and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Long overnight layover? Your options at ACN include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Mexico also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Ciudad Acuna count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave ACN. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.