A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mexico City vs. Beaver Creek for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Mexico City or Beaver Creek?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Mexico City or Beaver Creek? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Mexico City

Mexico City is a dynamic, colorful, and cultural city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Mexico City travel costs.

Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a adventurous, charming, and active town. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping. See Beaver Creek travel costs.

Mexico City and Beaver Creek: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Mexico City or Beaver Creek?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Mexico City than Beaver Creek, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Mexico City is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Beaver Creek is more popular for its skiing, theatre productions, resorts, and hiking. Beaver Creek is more touristy than Mexico City and is known for its skiing and charming atmosphere Mexico City is well known for its vibrant street food scene, colorful markets, and historic architecture. Also, Mexico City is famous for Zócalo.

How is Mexico City different from Beaver Creek?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Beaver Creek and Mexico City. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Mexico City or Beaver Creek Better for Skiing?

Mexico City
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is very popular for skiing and snowboarding. However, Mexico City is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Beaver Creek should be on your list. Beaver Creek Ski Resort is a top ski destination with 26 lifts and 149 different trails. It climbs to an elevation of 11,440 feet and the village is filled with ski-in/ski-out accommodation. There's also an excellent ski school.

Mexico City is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mexico City or Beaver Creek?

Mexico City
Beaver Creek

Mexico City is a world-class destination for its historical sights. However, Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Mexico City from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city is filled with historic buildings, fascinating museums, and interesting landmarks. At the heart of the city is Zócalo, where the country's constitution was signed. Nearby you'll find the National Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Templo Mayor. Other interesting museums in the city include the National Museum of Anthropology, the Palace of Fine Arts, and the National History Museum.

Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Mexico City or Beaver Creek Better for Theater?

Mexico City
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is not a good area for its shows and theatre. However, Mexico City is not a theatre destination.

While not known for its theater, you might be able to find something in Beaver Creek while you're in town. There are a couple of art galleries around town.

Mexico City is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Mexico City or Beaver Creek? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mexico City
Beaver Creek

Mexico City is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Beaver Creek is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Mexico City is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city food scene is as diverse as the population itself. There are countless ways to experience the amazing street food, but there are also world class chefs working in award winning restaurants. Make sure you try the chilaquiles, tacos al pastor, and chiles en nogada.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Beaver Creek. There are many great dining options where you can enjoy a meal after working up an appetite on the slopes. The cuisine has many mountain classics as well as fine dining and more casual restaurants.


Is Mexico City or Beaver Creek Better for Nightlife?

Mexico City
Beaver Creek

Mexico City is a world-class destination for nightlife. However, Beaver Creek is not known for nightlife and partying.

People head to Mexico City just to party. It's a huge city, so of course there's no shortage of diverse nightlife activities. Some of the most popular neighborhoods for nightlife include the downtown, La Condesa, and Colonia Juárez. For upscale clubs head to Polanco and for trendy and eclectic venues check out Roma.

Most people don't head to Beaver Creek specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. You won't find a wild nightlife scene, but most of the activities center around the Vilar Performing Arts Center.

Is Mexico City or Beaver Creek Better for Resorts?

Mexico City
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Mexico City is not a resort destination.

Beaver Creek has a few great resort options. There are many resorts in the area including the Westin and the Hyatt.

Mexico City is not a resort destination.

Is Mexico City or Beaver Creek Better for its Old Town?

Mexico City
Beaver Creek

Mexico City is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Beaver Creek does not have a historic old town.

Mexico City is a good destination for visiting its old town. Centro Historico spreads out from Zócalo Plaza, and has many buildings that date back as far as the Aztec period. Many tourists gather here to explore the history and wander down the pedestrian-only Calle Madero.

Beaver Creek does not have a historic old town.


Is Mexico City or Beaver Creek Better for Hiking?

Mexico City
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Mexico City is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Beaver Creek. The surrounding countryside is filled with trails that take you through flowered meadows, along scenic ridgelines, and to the top of dramatic peaks. During the warmer months, hiking is a wonderful way to enjoy the area.

Mexico City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mexico City or Beaver Creek?

Mexico City
Beaver Creek

Mexico City is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Beaver Creek is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Mexico City. The city has everything from open-air bazaars (tianguis) to modern shopping malls. There are international brands as well as local art galleries, handicrafts, and retail outlets.

Beaver Creek offers some nice shopping areas. The village has pedestrian streets that are lined with fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, sporting equipment stores, and art galleries.

Is Mexico City or Beaver Creek Better for Families?

Mexico City
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Mexico City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Beaver Creek is a very family-friendly destination. This is one of the most kid-friendly ski resorts in the country. There's a ski and snowboard school where kids can enjoy private or group lessons as well as other fun activities for kids. There are also many family-friendly restaurants in the area.

Mexico City is a very family-friendly place to visit. It's a huge city, so there are enough diverse activities to keep everyone entertained. There's even a Six Flags. Popular museums for kids include Papalote Museo del Niño and Museo de Geología. There's also the Acuario Inbursa, and make sure you check out a Lucha Libre show.


Is Mexico City or Beaver Creek Better for Couples?

Mexico City
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Mexico City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Beaver Creek makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are romantic resorts nearby as well as great adventure sports, skiing, snowboarding, and a beautiful setting.

Mexico City is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with parks where you can enjoy a picnic, museums that are fascinating to walk through, and cultural activities that are one-of-a-kind. You can ride on a gondola in Xochimilco or spend the day exploring the amazing food scene.

Is Mexico City or Beaver Creek Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mexico City
Beaver Creek

Mexico City is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Beaver Creek is not known for backpackers.

Mexico City is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's a big city with a wonderful atmosphere and many hostels. Backpackers who want to experience the culture, food, and personality of Mexico will love a visit here.

Beaver Creek is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't many facilities that cater to backpackers.

Is Mexico City or Beaver Creek Better for Students?

Mexico City
Beaver Creek

Mexico City is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Beaver Creek is not popular with students.

Mexico City is a great city to visit as a student. International students love the art, architecture, food, and culture that this colorful city has to offer.

Beaver Creek is not popular with students.


Is Mexico City or Beaver Creek Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Mexico City
Beaver Creek

Mexico City is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Beaver Creek is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

Public transit in Mexico City is fairly effecient and thorough. The city has a complex and comprehensive public transit system that includes a metro, metrobus, and local buses.

Beaver Creek has a few public transit options. There free transportation that's offered by Village Transportation.

Is Mexico City or Beaver Creek a more walkable city?

Mexico City
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is very popular for its ease of walking around. However, Mexico City is lacking in options for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Beaver Creek. It's a quaint little village that is very walkable.

Mexico City is generally not very walkable. While you can walk within many neighborhoods, such as the historic city center, it's impossible to walk between neighborhoods and in many parts of the city.

For even more information, also check out Is Mexico City Worth Visiting? and Is Beaver Creek Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beaver Creek or Mexico City?

How long in Mexico City or Beaver Creek?

Both Mexico City and Beaver Creek have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Beaver Creek than in Mexico City. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mexico City, and 3-7 days is enough time in Beaver Creek.

Families should spend more time in Beaver Creek than Mexico City. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Beaver Creek, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Beaver Creek than Mexico City. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Beaver Creek that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mexico City than Beaver Creek if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Mexico City.


  • How many days in Mexico City or Beaver Creek? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mexico City 3-5 
    Beaver Creek 3-7

One day in Mexico City or Beaver Creek?

Each neighborhood in Mexico City has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the charming town of Beaver Creek. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the skiing. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Mexico City or Beaver Creek?

Mexico City is a fun place to experience. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the adventurous destination of Beaver Creek. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Mexico City or Beaver Creek?

Each neighborhood in Mexico City has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the active town of Beaver Creek. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Mexico City or Beaver Creek?

Mexico City is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the destination of Beaver Creek. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the skiing. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this town.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, Beaver Creek or Mexico City?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Mexico City Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Beaver Creek Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Mexico City $212
    Beaver Creek $378

The average daily cost (per person) in Mexico City is $212, while the average daily cost in Beaver Creek is $378. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Mexico City and Beaver Creek in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mexico City $38
    Beaver Creek $203
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mexico City $76
    Beaver Creek $406
Compare Hotels in Mexico City and Beaver Creek

Looking for a hotel in Mexico City or Beaver Creek? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Mexico City


Hotels in Beaver Creek


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Mexico City Hotel Prices and Beaver Creek Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mexico City $12
    Beaver Creek $30
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Mexico City

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Mexico City:


  • Metro
    $1.09
  • Uber Ride
    $3.80

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Mexico City

Also for Mexico City, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary Visit with Transfer: $599
  • Teotihuacan: Private Balloon Flight with optional Transfer: $293
  • Shared Balloon Flight in Teotihuacan with transfer: $274
  • Mexico Airport (MEX) Tecozautla - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $252
  • Transfer from Mexico City Airport to Puebla: $245
  • Mexico Airport(MEX) to Chignahuapan - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $236
  • CDMX: Fly over Teotihuacan in a hot air balloon, with transfers and breakfast included.: $219
  • Mexico City Private Transfer to or from Airport: $216
  • Airport Transfer: Mexico to Mexico Airport NLU by Luxury SUV: $203
  • Private Transfer from Mexico City to Pachuca: $192
  • Private Transfer from Pachuca to Mexico City: $192
  • Private Departure Transfer from Toluca City hotels to Toluca airport: $174

Is it cheaper to fly into Mexico City or Beaver Creek?

Prices for flights to both Beaver Creek and Mexico City change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Mexico City $43
    Beaver Creek $146
Typical Food Prices in Mexico City

For Mexico City, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch for Two
    $12
  • Coffee and Snacks
    $4.24
  • Dinner for 2
    $25

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Mexico City

For Mexico City, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Private Street Food Tour Mexico City - Best rated : $35
  • Virtual Mexican Cooking Class (private and personalized): $50
  • San Juan Market Food Tour Exotic Bites & Flavors: $52
  • Coyoacán Market Food Tour Urban Eats & Local Legends: $52
  • Local Markets & Food Tour in Mexico City: $53
  • Art and Food Tour with Lunch: $54
  • Tortilla Crawl: Food Tour in Mexico City: $55
  • Mexico City Vegan & Veggie Market Explorer plus Cooking Lesson: $55
  • Private Half-Day Traditional Markets Street Food Tour in Mexico City: $57
  • 3 Hours Food Tour Best Vegan Tacos in Mexico City: $61
  • Old Town Food Tour of 7 Tastings & Secret Dish: $66
  • Frida Kahlo Museum & Coyoacan Tacos & Food Tour: $69

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mexico City $14
    Beaver Creek $53

Tours and Activities in Mexico City

For Mexico City, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Frida Kahlo Tour with Admission Tickets: $76
  • Hiking Tour on the Iztaccíhuatl Volcano from Puebla (private): $176
  • Mexico City Tour and Visit Chapultepec Castle. Private service: $180
  • Mixology, Food, Wine and Beer Experience in Xochimilco: $99
  • Monarch Butterfly Tour from Mexico City: $220
  • Private Tour Teotihuacan Essentials: $140
  • Private Walking Tour Gems of the Historic Center of Mexico City: $131
  • Private guided tour of the Soumaya Museum : $279
  • Romantic tour in San Andrés Mixquic: $150
  • Sunrise HotAir Balloon Adventure Over Teotihuacan's Pyramids: $160
  • Xochimilco Floating Gardens and Coyoacan Private Tour: $161
  • "Guided Tour Plus" EN Ruins "TEMPLE MAJOR" with OFFICIAL GUIDES: $34

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mexico City $19
    Beaver Creek $35

Sample the Local Flavors in Mexico City

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Mexico City:

  • Guided Pub Crawl with Party Games: $23
  • Mexico City Pub Crawl: $23
  • Zona Rosa Pub Crawl Experience: $94
  • Teotihuacan´s Best Balloon Flight: Pyramids and Brewery tours : $120
  • Cavas Freixenet Wine Tour from Mexico City: $222
  • Private Cheese and Wine Tour to Queretaro: $479


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mexico City and Beaver Creek, we can see that Beaver Creek is more expensive. And not only is Mexico City much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Mexico City would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Mexico City and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Beaver Creek would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Beaver Creek than you might in Mexico City.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Mexico City Expensive? and Is Beaver Creek Expensive?.