December is the season when most people travel by car: some go home with their families and others take advantage of the holidays to go to the beach. In both cases, planning ahead makes a difference between finding the schedule you want or staying with what’s left over.
If you're going home for the holidays
Long routes between large cities are the most sought after. Some examples that we consulted in the BUZ search engine are:
- CDMX → Monterrey: Flix, Senda Diamante, ETN and Turistar, from about 12:30 to 18:30.
- CDMX → Guadalajara: Primera Plus and ETN, about 6 h 20 min to 8 h 40 min.
- CDMX → Villahermosa: ADO and its classes, and AU, for about 11 to 15 hours.
On these trips, a night service saves you a day of vacation and a night in a hotel.
If you are looking for beach or rest
- Guadalajara → Puerto Vallarta: Primera Plus, ETN and Turistar, about 4 h 30 min to 5 h 20 min.
- Riviera Maya: From Cancun there are frequent departures to Playa del Carmen, Tulum and Bacalar.
- CDMX → Oaxaca: To close the year among markets, mezcal and a temperate climate.
Book before the price goes up
Check the available schedules for December.
Mexico City → MonterreyMexico City → GuadalajaraGuadalajara → Puerto Vallarta
Tips for traveling in December
- Avoid the peak days: The days before the 24th and the 31st, and the returns in early January, are usually the busiest. If you can move your trip one or two days, you'll have more options.
- Buy round-trip ticket at the same time: The January return fills up quickly.
- Check your luggage: If you are bringing gifts, confirm the baggage conditions of your operator.
- Arrives on time at the terminal: In high season there are more queues to document.
Data on schedules, durations, and operators consulted in the BUZ search engine on September 23, 2026 for departures on October 7, 2026. Prices and schedules change: always confirm in the search engine before purchasing.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to buy bus tickets for December?
With several weeks of advance notice, especially for departures near December 24 and 31 and returns in early January.
Is it advisable to travel at night at the end of the year?
For long trips: you take advantage of the time and avoid paying for a night in a hotel. Check out our tips for traveling by bus at night.
