A Mexican border city known for its complex social dynamics, 16th-century Spanish mission, and active manufacturing industry. Located across from El Paso, Texas.
Ciudad Juárez sits along the Rio Grande opposite El Paso, Texas. More than 300 assembly plants power the city's economy, and you can explore sites like the ornate 17th-century Mission de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe with its baroque altar, or examine pre-Hispanic artifacts at the Museum of Anthropology and History. Four international bridges connect the two countries, making Ciudad Juárez a central point for U.S.-Mexico commerce and daily life.
Crossing the Border
Four bridges connect Ciudad Juárez to El Paso: the Bridge of the Americas, Ysleta-Zaragoza International Bridge, Paso del Norte Bridge, and Stanton Street Bridge. You can enter from the United States without a visa as part of Mexico's zona frontera, but you'll need a passport to return to the U.S. The crossing points operate 24 hours daily, with wait times ranging from 15 minutes to over two hours during morning and evening rush hours.
Getting Around Ciudad Juárez
Public buses run on the main streets for eight pesos per ride. The ViveBús rapid transit system, introduced in 2013, connects major areas with air-conditioned buses and dedicated lanes. For taxis, ask the driver about the fare before starting your trip. If you plan to drive, remember that local drivers often create informal lanes and frequently use their horns to communicate.
Weather and Climate
The city experiences a cold desert climate with four distinct seasons. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 35°C (95°F) with minimal rain, while winter nights can drop below freezing. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) see temperatures between 20-25°C (68-77°F). The dry air and strong sun make water bottles and sunscreen essential year-round.
Cultural Institutions
The Autonomous University of Ciudad Juárez leads 20 higher education institutions in the city. At the Museum of Anthropology and History, you can examine tools, pottery, and artifacts from indigenous peoples who lived in the region. The Mission de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, dating to 1662, contains original colonial paintings and a gold-leafed altar.
Food Scene
Northern Mexican cuisine dominates local restaurants, where cooks press corn tortillas by hand for fresh tacos. Street food carts line major avenues, grilling meat options from beef to chorizo. You'll also find Chinese restaurants near the university district and Brazilian steakhouses in the Pronaf zone.
Safety Considerations
Police concentrate their presence in central areas and near international bridges. Military checkpoints operate throughout the city, particularly at night. Keep to central areas during daylight hours, and store valuables in your hotel safe. Many visitors base themselves in El Paso and cross the border for day visits to Ciudad Juárez.
