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Mexico City, Federal District to Palenque, Chiapas from $36: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Mexico City, Mexico
to
Palenque, Mexico

How to Get from Mexico City to Palenque: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$36 by busBest price
789.1 kmDistance
3h 31m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Mexico City to Palenque with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
4h  22m
Estimated price
$110-315
Recommended
Company
Ecobus Express, Ómnibus Cristóbal Colón (OCC)
Bus
Average Duration
13h 
Estimated price
$36-60
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 789.1 km
Duration: 3h 31m

See more options

Company
ADO
Bus
Average Duration
14h  50m
Estimated price
$60-140
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
9h  57m
Estimated price
$90-140
Company
various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
3h  31m
Estimated price
$121-290
Company
various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
7h  10m
Estimated price
$260-500

Traveling From Mexico City to Palenque

Journeying from the bustling urban energy of Mexico City to the lush tranquility of Palenque reveals a fascinating contrast between metropolitan life and serene natural beauty.

Best Neighbourhoods in Palenque

Palenque offers a variety of charming neighborhoods, each with its own character.

Centro
• Vibrant local markets and shops.
• Close proximity to historic sites.
Palenque National Park
• Stunning natural scenery and wildlife.
• Easy access to archaeological ruins.
Las Lajas
• Quieter atmosphere for relaxation.
• Beautiful views of surrounding landscapes.

Best Times To Visit Palenque's Attractions

Planning your visit to Palenque's attractions can significantly enhance your experience.

Palenque Archaeological Zone
Visit early in the morning for cooler temperatures and fewer tourists.
Palenque National Park
Opt for weekday visits to enjoy serene hiking trails and wildlife.
Misol-Ha Waterfall
Go in the late afternoon for stunning light and fewer visitors.

Palenque Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Palenque experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, making December to April the best months for comfortable temperatures and lower humidity. However, visiting during the rainy season from May to October can bring lush landscapes, but be prepared for sudden showers that might impact outdoor plans.

Dining Recommendation in Palenque

Savor the rich flavors of cochinita pibil at Restaurante Don Muchos, where this slow-roasted pork dish showcases the Yucatán's traditional cooking techniques and local spices. The laid-back atmosphere and outdoor seating surrounded by nature create a delicious contrast to the fast-paced dining scene of Mexico City.

Mexico City - Palenque operators

Explore transport companies operating between Mexico City and Palenque, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane
Website
aeromexico.com

Plane from Mexico City (MEX) to Villahermosa (VSA)

Average Duration
1h 42m
Estimated price
$120-370

Plane from Mexico City (MEX) to Ciudad Del Carmen (CME)

Average Duration
1h 45m
Estimated price
$140-350
Website
vivaaerobus.com

Plane from Mexico City (MEX) to Villahermosa (VSA)

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$65-270

Plane from Mexico City Santa Lucia Apt (NLU) to Villahermosa (VSA)

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$50-200
Website
volaris.com

Plane from Mexico City (MEX) to Villahermosa (VSA)

Average Duration
1h 33m
Estimated price
$60-310
Bus
Contact phone
+52 55 5526 2961
Website
facebook.com

Bus from Mexico City Politécnico to Villahermosa

Average Duration
10h
Estimated price
$27-40
Contact phone
+52 555 784 4652
Website
ado.com.mx

Bus from Villahermosa to Palenque

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$8-22
Contact phone
+52 555 784 4652
Website
ado.com.mx

Bus from Terminal Central de Autobuses del Norte to Palenque

Average Duration
14h 50m
Estimated price
$60-140
Taxi
Contact phone
+52 993 222 4277

Taxi from Villahermosa to Palenque

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
$50-65

Mexico City to Palenque: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Mexico City and Palenque offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Mexico City to Palenque, covering a distance of 896.4 km. Enjoy a roughly 10-hour journey through diverse landscapes and charming towns. 💰 Explore budget-friendly options with car rentals ranging from $90 to $140 for the Mexico City to Palenque route.
Average price
$90 - $140
🚂 Route 1: Traveling from Mexico City to Palenque takes approximately 14 hours and 55 minutes by train, covering a distance of 898 km. The journey involves one transfer, first a bus towards Villahermosa TB for 12 hours and 40 minutes. 🚂 Route 2: Another option to reach Palenque from Mexico City is a 14-hour train journey with two transfers. Passengers will take a bus towards Puebla BN for 1 hour and 30 minutes, followed by a longer 8-hour and 50-minute bus ride towards Campeche CP. 🚂 Route 3: For a 14-hour and 35-minute train trip to Palenque from Mexico City, travelers can choose a route with two transfers. The journey includes a bus towards Puebla BN, an almost 9-hour ride towards Villahermosa TB, and a final 2-hour and 10-minute bus towards Palenque CS.
🛫 For a quick and convenient journey from Mexico City to Palenque, consider taking a direct flight to Villahermosa Airport, which has a flight duration of 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Departure Point
Mexico City Airport
Arrival Point
Villahermosa Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Book your flight with Aeroméxico for the most reliable service on the Mexico City to Villahermosa route, as they offer the most frequent direct flights at convenient times.
• Upon arriving at Villahermosa Airport, be prepared for a short taxi ride of about 1.5 hours to Palenque, which typically costs around 900 to 1,200 MXN; it's advisable to negotiate the fare beforehand or use authorized taxi services available at the airport.
• Make use of the Villahermosa Airport Wi-Fi to check local transportation schedules and book a trusted taxi service like 'Taxi Seguro' directly from your phone before exiting the airport.
🌴 Enjoy a scenic ride through the beautiful landscapes of Mexico as you travel towards Palenque. The journey takes approximately 14 hours and 50 minutes, providing plenty of time to relax, read, or take in the views along the way. 💸 Prices for the bus from Mexico City to Palenque range from $36 to $60, offering an affordable and comfortable transportation option for those looking to explore the ancient ruins and lush surroundings of Palenque.
Departure Point
Mexico City Politécnico station
Arrival Point
Palenque station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Consider booking your ADO or OCC bus tickets in advance, especially during holiday seasons or festivals, to secure a comfortable seat for the 13-15 hour journey from Mexico City to Palenque, as they are quite popular routes. Learn more about the schedules and purchase tickets at ADO's official site or OCC's website.
• Prepare for the bus ride by bringing snacks and a refillable water bottle, as options for dining are limited along the long route; however, the ADO and OCC buses generally have comfortable seating and may offer small snacks and drinks for purchase during the trip.
• Upon arrival at the Palenque Bus Station, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the layout, as it can be overwhelming; you’ll find local taxi services and shuttle options to nearby hotels and the Palenque ruins right outside the station, ensuring a smooth transition to your next adventure.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Mexico City to Palenque.

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The distance between Mexico City and Palenque is 489 miles by air and 558 miles by road. The typical travel time by air is around 4 hours and 10 minutes, with a flight to Villahermosa followed by a short taxi ride to Palenque. The travel time by car is approximately 9 hours and 57 minutes. If you prefer to travel by bus, the typical travel time is around 13 hours.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Mexico City to Palenque is by bus, which costs between $30 and $55. However, this option takes the longest, with a travel time of approximately 13 hours. The fastest and most time-efficient option is to fly to Villahermosa and then take a taxi, which takes about 4 hours and 10 minutes but can cost between $110 and $320. Considering both cost and time, individuals should weigh their priorities to determine the best transportation option for them.
The prices for a bus ticket between Mexico City and Palenque can range from $34 to $55. It is advisable to check with different bus companies to compare prices and find the best deal. Keep in mind that fares may vary based on the type of bus, services provided, and the time of travel.
To get from Mexico City to Palenque without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 557 miles, which takes about 9 hours and 57 minutes. The prices for renting a car and driving from Mexico City to Palenque range from $90 to $140, depending on the rental agency and type of vehicle. This option allows you the flexibility to stop and explore different attractions along the way and is a convenient mode of travel for those who prefer a more independent journey.
The best way to travel from Mexico City to Palenque without a car is by taking a bus via Villahermosa. The journey takes approximately 13 hours and the cost is typically between $30 and $55. The bus route typically includes stops in smaller towns along the way, allowing you to experience different parts of Mexico during your journey.
Yes, there is a direct link between Mexico City and Palenque. The bus service operated by Ecobus Express departs twice daily from México Central Norte and arrives at Palenque, with a journey time of approximately 15 hours and 20 minutes. The bus service is available every day for travelers looking to make the trip between these two cities.
The flight between Mexico City and Palenque typically takes 1 hour and 30 minutes. This is the quickest and most convenient mode of transportation for this route. As for the cost, it can vary depending on the airline and the time of year, but on average, the ticket price ranges between $100 to $150 USD. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best fares.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Palenque. There are over 80 hotels available in the area, providing a range of choices for different budgets and preferences. Prices start at $28 per night, making it affordable for most travelers. Whether you're looking for luxury resorts, budget-friendly guesthouses, or cozy bed and breakfasts, there are plenty of options to choose from in Palenque.