A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mexico City vs. Big Island of Hawaii for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Mexico City or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

Should I visit Mexico City or Big Island of Hawaii? 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.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a adventure-filled, laid back, and relaxing island. Big Island of Hawaii is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Big Island of Hawaii travel costs.

Mexico City and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mexico City or Big Island of Hawaii?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii than Mexico City, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Big Island of Hawaii is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Mexico City is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Mexico City and is known for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. Also, Big Island of Hawaii is famous for the Waipio Valley Overlook. Mexico City is well known for its vibrant street food scene, colorful markets, and historic architecture.

How is Mexico City different from Big Island of Hawaii?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mexico City or Big Island of Hawaii?

Mexico City is renowned for its historical sights. Also, Big Island of Hawaii is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

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.

Big Island of Hawaii offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several local museums around the island such as the Hulihe'e Palace and 'Imiloa Astronomy Center. There's also the Hawaii Plantation Museum and the Lyman House Museum.

Is the Food Better in Mexico City or Big Island of Hawaii? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mexico City is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Big Island of Hawaii is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Big Island of Hawaii. It can be challenging to find local restaurants that aren't catering to the tourist crowd, but when you do you'll be rewarded with great local dishes. Seafood, poke bowls, and shave ice are all popular.

Is Mexico City or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Mexico City is renowned for nightlife. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for nightlife and partying.

Mexico City is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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 Big Island of Hawaii specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The nightlife scene is very chill with many local places that have live music and drinks. You won't find any major nightclubs, but there are karaoke bars and laid back breweries. The most options are found in Hilo and Kailua-Kona.

Is Mexico City or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Mexico City is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Big Island of Hawaii is a great choice. There are a number of beautiful luxury resorts on the island like the Hilton Waikoloa Village, the Four Seasons Resort, and Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort.

Mexico City is not a resort destination.

Is Mexico City or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Mexico City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Big Island of Hawaii a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. There are a number of beautiful snorkeling spots where you'll see beautiful fish and sometimes even sea turtles. A bucket list experience is also diving or snorkeling with the manta rays, which will take your breath away.

Mexico City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mexico City or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for the beach. However, Mexico City is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Big Island of Hawaii. This is a younger island than most in Hawaii, so the beaches are varied and diverse. You'll find white sand beaches, black volcanic sand beaches, and even green sand. There are also areas where the lava rock reaches the ocean. Hapuna Beach is a favorite as is Honl's Beach.

Mexico City is not a beach destination.

Is Mexico City or Big Island of Hawaii Better for its Old Town?

Mexico City is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Big Island of Hawaii 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.

Big Island of Hawaii does not have a historic old town.

Is Mexico City or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Mexico City is not a hiking destination.

People visit Big Island of Hawaii specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The island is filled with miles of spectacular hiking trails. They'll take you to iconic waterfalls, world-renowned viewpoints, and through fields of lava rocks. Many people spend days hiking in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, but there are also impressive hikes along the Kona Coast.

Mexico City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mexico City or Big Island of Hawaii?

Mexico City is renowned for shopping. Also, Big Island of Hawaii is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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.

Big Island of Hawaii is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many local artisan shops on the island, particular in Hilo, Historic Kailua Village and along the Kohala Coast. You'll find handmade quilts, wooden carved products, and handcrafted jewelry.

Is Mexico City or Big Island of Hawaii More Beautiful?

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, Mexico City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Big Island of Hawaii is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Kilauea is the dramatic volcano that often offers a show to visitors. The island also has spectacular viewpoints like Waipi'o Valley Lookout, dramatic waterfalls, and picturesque bays.

Mexico City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Mexico City or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Big Island of Hawaii 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, Big Island of Hawaii is a very family-friendly destination. Families will enjoy the laid back island vibe. You can spend some time on the beach and then head inland to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. If your kids are adventurous, the island is a great place to dive or snorkel with manta rays. There are also great hikes, helicopter rides, and luaus.

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 Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for couples. Also, Mexico City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Big Island of Hawaii makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who enjoy a relaxed beach vibe will love a visit to this laid back island. There are upscale resorts as well as independent hotels that have a more personal style. The island also has stunning views, impressive hikes, and countless opportunities for romance.

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 Big Island of Hawaii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mexico City and Big Island of Hawaii are both very good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Mexico City. 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Big Island of Hawaii. This is one of the most popular islands for backpackers. It has a mellow atmosphere that appeals to young travelers. There are also hostels on the island, but transportation can be challenging.

Is Mexico City or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Students?

Mexico City is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Big Island of Hawaii 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.

Big Island of Hawaii is not popular with students.

Is Mexico City or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Mexico City is a great city for times when you don't have a car. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for its public transit.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Mexico City. The city has a complex and comprehensive public transit system that includes a metro, metrobus, and local buses.

Public transit is generally limited in Big Island of Hawaii. There is a bus service that connects Kona and Hilo. It's called the Hele-On and there are both north and south routes.

Is Mexico City or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

Mexico City is adequate for its walkability. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for its high level of walkability.

Mexico City is generally not a very walkable city. 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.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a walkable city. It's the largest of the Hawaiian islands and a car is necessary if you want to see the whole thing.

For even more information, also check out Is Mexico City Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii or Mexico City?

How long in Mexico City or Big Island of Hawaii?

Mexico City and Big Island of Hawaii both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Big Island of Hawaii than Mexico City because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mexico City, and 5-14 days is enough time in Big Island of Hawaii.

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

Couples should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Mexico City. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Big Island of Hawaii 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 Big Island of Hawaii 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.

One day in Mexico City or Big Island of Hawaii?

Mexico City is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the relaxing island of Big Island of Hawaii. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Big Island of Hawaii?

Mexico City is a fun place to experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the laid back destination of Big Island of Hawaii. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This island 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 Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Mexico City for five days. Mexico City is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the laid back island of Big Island of Hawaii. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Big Island of Hawaii?

The colorful big city of Mexico City offers nightlife and food. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Big Island of Hawaii. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this island.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mexico City and Big Island of Hawaii, we can see that Big Island of Hawaii 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 Big Island of Hawaii would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Big Island of Hawaii 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 Big Island of Hawaii Expensive?.