Complete Guide to Tasqueña Station: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Nearby Attractions in Mexico City
Date: 04/07/2025
Introduction
Tasqueña Station is more than just a southern terminus of Mexico City’s Metro Line 2—it is a vibrant intermodal hub connecting the city’s historic core with southern neighborhoods and beyond. Since its inauguration in 1970, Tasqueña has evolved into a strategic transit point, seamlessly linking metro, light rail, trolleybus, and intercity bus services. Its location in the Campestre Churubusco neighborhood of Coyoacán makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Mexico City’s rich cultural and historical offerings.
With iconic crescent moon symbolism and monumental public art, Tasqueña Station serves both as a functional transport facility and a cultural landmark. This guide provides everything you need: detailed visiting hours, ticketing information, accessibility features, travel tips, safety guidance, and highlights of nearby attractions such as Coyoacán and Xochimilco.
For further details and official scheduling, refer to the Mexico City Metro website, UrbanRail.net, and Coyoacán’s tourism portal.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Historical Background and Development
- Practical Information for Visitors
- Transportation Connections
- Nearby Attractions and Amenities
- Architectural and Artistic Features
- Exploring Xochimilco
- FAQs
- Conclusion and Recommendations
- References
Historical Background and Development
Origins and Construction
Tasqueña Station opened on August 1, 1970, as the southern terminus of Metro Line 2. Its name references Avenida Tasqueña, itself a nod to the city of Taxco, Guerrero, known for its silver mining history. Initially, the station served as a vital link between the city center and the rapidly developing southern boroughs (UrbanRail.net; Touristlink).
Architecture and Artistic Highlights
Tasqueña is a surface-level, open-air station, designed to accommodate high passenger volumes. Its crescent moon icon, derived from the Mexico City Metro’s pictogram system, aids navigation for all users regardless of literacy. The station is further distinguished by public artworks, including four monumental murals by Alberto Castro Leñero. These talavera and ceramic works—“Fuego,” “Aliento,” “Azul,” and “Horizontal”—celebrate Mexican artistry and the nation’s ceramic traditions.
Evolution into an Intermodal Hub
The transformation of Tasqueña into the CETRAM (Centro de Transferencia Modal) established it as a true intermodal center, integrating Metro, Xochimilco Light Rail, trolleybus, and intercity bus services. The conversion of the southern tramway into the Xochimilco Light Rail in the late 1980s further enhanced its role in connecting commuters and tourists to the famous canals of Xochimilco (OTCPD).
Practical Information for Visitors
Visiting Hours
- Metro (Line 2): Daily, 5:00 AM to midnight.
- Xochimilco Light Rail: Similar hours, with slight variations on weekends and holidays.
- Sunday/Holidays: Metro opens at 7:00 AM.
Ticket Prices and Purchasing
- Metro: 5 MXN per ride (approx. $0.25 USD). Tickets and rechargeable cards are available at booths and machines in the station.
- Xochimilco Light Rail: Requires a separate ticket (3 MXN), payable with the CDMX Smartcard.
- Discounts: Reduced fares for students, seniors, and people with disabilities are available—check the official Metro site for current policies.
Accessibility
Tasqueña Station is fully accessible:
- Elevators and ramps
- Tactile paving and Braille signage
- Accessible ticket counters
- Platforms accommodate wheelchairs and strollers
- Guide dogs are welcome
Safety and Best Times to Visit
- Best Times: Mid-morning or early afternoon for fewer crowds.
- Security: CCTV, security staff, and clear signage are present.
- Travel Tips: Keep belongings secure, be cautious during rush hours (7–9 AM, 5–7 PM on weekdays), and avoid isolated areas late at night.
Transportation Connections
- Xochimilco Light Rail (Tren Ligero): Direct connection to Xochimilco, famous for its canals and floating gardens.
- Trolleybus: Route A (to Autobuses del Norte), Route K (to UNAM and UACM).
- Terminal del Sur (Bus Depot): Regional and intercity buses to destinations like Cuernavaca, Acapulco, and Taxco.
Nearby Attractions and Amenities
Cultural and Historical Sites
- Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul): The former home of the renowned artist, showcasing her life and work.
- Anahuacalli Museum: Diego Rivera’s collection of pre-Hispanic artifacts.
- Leon Trotsky House Museum: The exile home of the Russian revolutionary.
Dining and Shopping
The station area features:
- Local eateries with traditional Mexican cuisine
- Street food vendors
- Retail kiosks for essentials and souvenirs
Architectural and Artistic Features
- Station Layout: Wide, open concourses with color-coded signage and pictograms for easy navigation.
- Crescent Moon Iconography: Symbolizes the silver heritage of Taxco and local mythology.
- Alberto Castro Leñero’s Murals: Four large murals in the main concourse, celebrating Mexican culture and tradition.
- Design: Blends durable materials with geometric motifs, emphasizing both function and aesthetics.
Exploring Xochimilco
History and Cultural Significance
Xochimilco, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famed for its ancient canals, floating gardens (chinampas), and vibrant trajineras (colorful boats). The canals date back to Aztec times and are a living testament to Mexico’s pre-Hispanic agricultural ingenuity.
Visiting Hours and Tickets
- Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM.
- Trajinera Rental: 500–700 MXN per hour, depending on group size and season.
- Guided Tours: Available and recommended during peak periods.
Getting There from Tasqueña
- Tren Ligero: Board at Tasqueña for a 40–50 minute direct ride to Xochimilco station.
Nearby Attractions
- Museo Dolores Olmedo: Art collections of Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo.
- Cuemanco Ecological Park: Birdwatching and nature trails.
- Local Markets: Food, crafts, and souvenirs along the canals.
Visitor Tips
- Visit early or on weekdays for a quieter experience.
- Bring sun protection.
- Basic Spanish will help; English is limited.
- Stay alert for personal safety in crowded areas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are Tasqueña Station’s operating hours?
A: 5:00 AM–midnight (Mon–Sat), 7:00 AM–midnight (Sun/holidays).
Q: How do I purchase tickets?
A: At station booths or machines; rechargeable cards are available.
Q: Is Tasqueña Station accessible?
A: Yes—elevators, ramps, tactile paths, and Braille signage are provided.
Q: Can I transfer directly to the Xochimilco Light Rail?
A: Yes, but a separate ticket or a compatible rechargeable card is required.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Occasionally, especially near cultural sites in Coyoacán and Xochimilco.
Conclusion and Recommendations
Tasqueña Station exemplifies the intersection of history, culture, and modern urban mobility in Mexico City. Its strategic location, architectural highlights, and seamless transit connections make it an essential stop for both residents and visitors. With affordable tickets, extended service hours, and extensive accessibility features, Tasqueña invites all to explore its vibrant surroundings—from Coyoacán’s historic streets to the iconic canals of Xochimilco.
For the latest updates, travel tips, and event details, download the Audiala app and consult the official transit resources. Start your journey through Mexico City at Tasqueña Station, where the city’s heritage and future converge.
