There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Toluca into a quick city adventure. From TLC, the Local Bus / Taxi can get you into town in around 50 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Before heading into Toluca, 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: Toluca is roughly 50 minutes from TLC via Local Bus / Taxi. 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.
How to Get Into Toluca
The most straightforward way into Toluca is the Local Bus / Taxi, which takes about 50 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 70 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Local Bus / Taxi is usually the smarter call.
What to Budget for Your Toluca Side Trip
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Toluca, budget roughly $28 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $12 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $6 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at TLC aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Toluca itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
What’s Worth Seeing in Toluca
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Toluca, two standouts are:
- Cosmovitral JardÃn Botánico — It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Toluca.
- Catedral de San José de Toluca — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at TLC, check out VIP Lounge by Global Lounge Network or Duty-Free Shops to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Eat
- In the city: Amaranta and Restaurant Bar Casa de Piedra (Metepec) are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Toluca.
- At the airport: Chili’s Aeropuerto Toluca and Taco Inn will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at TLC.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and TLC is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Toluca 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.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Toluca is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Toluca.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.