On November 1 and 2, Mexico is filled with altars, cempasúchil, music, and visits to the cemeteries. Each region celebrates in its own way, and several of the most well-known celebrations are a few hours by bus away. Here are some routes to plan your trip for Day of the Dead 2026. This year, November 1 falls on a Sunday and November 2 on a Monday, and the same weekend the Mexico Grand Prix takes place in Mexico City, so there will be a lot of demand for tickets.
Oaxaca
One of the most complete celebrations: comparsas, altars in houses and markets, illuminated cemeteries and the Oaxacan gastronomy at its best. From CDMX there are direct services from ADO (ADO, GL and Platino) of about 6 to 8 hours, from Terminal Norte, TAPO and other terminals. For October 30 we find more than 40 departures, starting from $966 MXN.
Michoacán: Pátzcuaro and Janitzio
The Night of the Dead in Lake Pátzcuaro, the night of November 1st to 2nd, is one of the most visited celebrations in the country. There are direct departures from CDMX Pátzcuaro with Primera Plus from Terminal Norte (from $875 MXN, about 4 h 15), and many more to Morelia (from $825 MXN). From Guadalajara, the practical route is Guadalajara → Morelia. Read our complete guide: Night of the Dead in Pátzcuaro and Janitzio by bus.
Mexico City
If you live outside the city, the capital is also a destination: the Day of the Dead parade, offerings in public spaces, and the traditions of San Andrés Mixquic in Tláhuac are among the most visited. Getting to CDMX by bus is easy from Puebla, Pachuca, Querétaro, Monterrey, and many other cities. If you also go to the Formula 1 Grand Prix, check it out How to get to CDMX by bus for the Grand Prix.
Aguascalientes
Aguascalientes celebrates the Calaveras Festival, linked to the figure of José Guadalupe Posada, creator of the Catrina image, who was born in this city. From CDMX we can find departures from Flix, Primera Plus and ETN starting from $409 MXN and a 5h 40min journey. Check the official dates of the festival before traveling.
Puebla
The state of Puebla has very well-known traditions, such as the monumental offerings of Huaquechula. The capital city of Puebla is less than 2 hours from Mexico City, with more than 200 departures per day from $89 MXN, and serves as a base for visiting nearby towns.
San Luis Potosí and the Xantolo
In Huasteca Potosina, Day of the Dead is celebrated as Xantolo, with dances, flower arches, and offerings. The city of San Luis Potosí is the gateway to the state; from there, you continue towards Huasteca. From CDMX, there are departures starting at $429 MXN and a 5-hour journey on the fastest routes.
See available schedules for Oct 31 – Nov 2
The departures on October 30 and 31 are the most sought after.
Mexico City → OaxacaMexico City → PátzcuaroMexico City → AguascalientesMexico City → PueblaMexico City → San Luis Potosí
Tips for traveling on Day of the Dead
- Buy now: There are two weeks left; the departures on October 30 and 31 and the return on November 2 are the first to be filled, and the lodging in Oaxaca and Pátzcuaro sells out before the buses do.
- Visit the cemeteries with respect: They are family celebrations; ask before taking close-up photos.
- He is wearing a coat: The nights in early November can be cold in high-altitude cities like Oaxaca, Aguascalientes, or San Luis Potosí.
Data on schedules, durations, and operators consulted in the BUZ search engine on October 17, 2026 for departures on October 30, 2026. Prices and schedules change: always confirm in the search engine before purchasing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Day of the Dead celebrated best?
Oaxaca, Mexico City (including Mixquic), Michoacán (Pátzcuaro and Janitzio), Puebla, Aguascalientes, and the Huasteca Potosina have some of the most well-known celebrations.
How long does the bus from CDMX to Oaxaca take?
In our BUZ search query, the direct services lasted from about 6 to 8 hours.
