Tijuana Travel Tips

Tijuana Travel Tips: Primary Parking

First, head south on I-805 or I-5 and take exit 1A for Camino De La Plaza. At the signal, make a right and then an immediate right into Border Station Parking (4570 Camino De La Plaza, San Ysidro, CA 92173).

Alternative Parking Lots

Additionally, you can use International Parking or Gate Way Parking near East San Ysidro Blvd. Furthermore, another secure option is the all-day parking lot located directly behind Carolin Shoes (660 E San Ysidro Blvd).

Tijuana Travel Tips: Trolley Routes

If you are staying in San Diego, hop on the MTS Trolley (UC San Diego Blue Line) all the way down to the border. Consequently, it connects seamlessly to Old Town Transit Center, Downtown San Diego, and Snapdragon Stadium. You can check official schedules and routes at www.sdmts.com.

Airport Connections & Fares

For instance, if you are arriving at San Diego International Airport, simply take the free San Diego Flyer shuttle to Old Town Transit Center. From there, catch the Blue Line trolley down to San Ysidro. In addition, download the Pronto App ($2.50 per ride) to pay fares instantly from your phone.

Important: However, remember to check trolley operating schedules when returning north late at night. If you miss the last trolley, taxis or rideshares are available at the border.

Once you have parked or exited the trolley at San Ysidro Transit Center, walk toward Rail Ct (just south of McDonald's) to access PedEast. In fact, PedEast is open 24/7/365 for pedestrians crossing into Mexico with fast, minimal wait times. Therefore, follow the signs directly into the Mexican Port of Entry.

Important: Always check trolley schedules when returning north late at night. If you miss the last trolley, taxis or rideshares are available at the border.

You must bring a valid U.S. Passport or Passport Card to enter Mexico.

Specifically, foreign visitors must present identification and complete a Mexican migration form (FMM) at the immigration checkpoint. Meanwhile, SENTRI / Global Entry passes can be used for expedited reentry back into the U.S. In addition, baggage screening is mandatory upon entry.

Most major U.S. carriers include data roaming in Mexico. However, activating international roaming or saving offline Google Maps before crossing is highly recommended. For example, local TelCel SIMs/eSIMs are also widely available right after crossing.

Currency & Cash Tip: U.S. Dollars are widely accepted throughout Tijuana. However, exchanging cash at San Ysidro (near Exit 1A) before crossing often provides a better exchange rate. Furthermore, bring sufficient cash in advance and avoid using standalone ATMs in tourist zones to avoid high transaction fees.

Getting to your hotel: Once you clear Mexican immigration, you can easily catch an official yellow taxi right outside the building or request an Uber/DiDi to pick you up nearby.

Driving into Tijuana is straightforward and similar to navigating any major metropolitan area. In addition, recommended hotels near the border feature secure, private parking.

Mandatory Insurance

Traffic Note: Peak driving hours entering Mexico are between 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM on weekdays. If driving for your first visit, ensure you take Exit 1A off I-805 South if you need to make a final stop in San Ysidro before crossing.