Passing through General Abelardo L. RodrÃguez International Airport? A layover in Tijuana is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 60 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Important Details Before You Go
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at TIJ:
First, verify that you can enter Mexico — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi / Ride-sharing takes about 60 minutes into Tijuana, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — MXN is the currency here. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
From TIJ, the Taxi / Ride-sharing gets you to Tijuana in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi / Ride-sharing offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Luggage Storage at TIJ
Dedicated luggage storage at TIJ may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Tijuana’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.
Money & Budget Tips
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Tijuana:
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 Tijuana.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Tijuana, two standouts are:
- Avenida Revolución — Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
- Centro Cultural Tijuana (CECUT) — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside TIJ — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- The Grand Lounge Elite
- Dufry Duty Free
Best Bites Near TIJ
For food in Tijuana, local travelers recommend Tacos El Franc. If you have time for a second stop, Caesar’s Restaurant is another popular pick.
Back at TIJ, California Pizza Kitchen is the go-to. Starbucks rounds out your in-terminal options.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at TIJ, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Tijuana itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Mexico that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Taking a Break at TIJ
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, TIJ has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Tijuana count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave TIJ. 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.