A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mexico City vs. Destin for Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Mexico City or Destin?

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

Should I visit Mexico City or Destin? 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 vibrant, dynamic, and colorful city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Mexico City travel costs.

Destin

Destin is a family-friendly, beautiful, and relaxing beach town. Destin offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, food, and beaches. See Destin travel costs.

Mexico City and Destin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mexico City or Destin?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Mexico City than Destin, 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 Destin is more popular for its resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty. Destin is more touristy than Mexico City and is popular for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants. 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 Destin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Destin 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 Destin?

Mexico City is terrific for its sights and museums. However, Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Mexico City that are not to be missed. 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.

Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Mexico City is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its restaurants.

Mexico City has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Destin has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The area has great seafood including crab chowder, seafood gumbo, and fried fish. You can find wonderful local restaurants that have waterfront views and menus that feature freshly caught seafood. Many restaurants also have kid-friendly menus. During peak season, reservations are recommended.

Is Mexico City or Destin Better for Nightlife?

Mexico City is terrific for nightlife. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for nightlife and partying.

Mexico City is a must-see party destination. 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.

Destin doesn't offer many options. The region is more popular as a family-friendly beach destination than it is for it's nightlife. Head to the Harbor area for the most lively nightlife.

Is Mexico City or Destin Better for Resorts?

Destin is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Mexico City is not a resort destination.

Destin is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Popular options include the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, as well as Hilton Sandestin Beach, Golf Resort & Spa. Most of the accommodation in the area is in the form of condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms. Most of these complexes also have pools, hot tubs, and even kids clubs.

Mexico City is not a resort destination.

Is Mexico City or Destin Better for Beaches?

Destin is an excellent place to visit for the beach. However, Mexico City is not a beach destination.

Destin is considered a top beach destination. This area is famous for its powdery white sand, beautiful blue waters, and calm waves. The beaches are large enough that they never get incredibly crowded, but you will find the largest crowds during the summer months. These beaches are particularly popular with families and seniors.

Mexico City is not a beach destination.

Is Mexico City or Destin Better for its Old Town?

Mexico City is very good for its historic old town. However, Destin does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Mexico City to see the historical 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.

Destin does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Mexico City or Destin?

Mexico City is terrific for shopping. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Mexico City is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Destin. In the shopping centers around town you'll find a number of unique boutique shops that are fun to explore. They have boutique-style beach clothes, local art, and any beach supplies that you may have forgotten.

Is Mexico City or Destin More Beautiful?

Destin is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Mexico City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Destin offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With its powdery sand and the blue water of the Gulf of Mexico, this is a beautiful beach destination.

Mexico City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Mexico City or Destin Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Mexico City or Destin.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Mexico City. 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.

Destin is a very family-friendly place to visit. The area has beautiful sandy beaches, calm waters, and plenty of activities for kids like Big Kahuna's Water Park. This is one of the more kid-friendly areas in Florida and many families return year after year with their kids. There are also many condos available for rent and kids can have their own room, kitchens are available for meal preparation, and there are washers and dryers to clean clothes. Many of these condo complexes also have kid-friendly pools

Is Mexico City or Destin Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Mexico City and Destin make for a notable place to visit.

Mexico City is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Destin is a nice destination for couples. For a relaxing beach vacation, this is a nice option for couples. A lot of the accommodation is in the form of condos, so it may not have the romantic resort vibe you're going for though. There are many great seafood restaurants and quiet beaches that have beautiful sunsets.

Is Mexico City or Destin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mexico City is notable for backpackers. However, Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Mexico City or Destin Better for Students?

Mexico City is notable for students. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its student-friendly activities.

Mexico City is very popular with students. International students love the art, architecture, food, and culture that this colorful city has to offer.

Destin is a decent spot for students. It is more a family-friendly destination than a spring break destination. If you're looking for a place to cut loose and blow off some steam, then there are better options in Florida.

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

Mexico City is notable for its public transit. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for times when you don't have a car.

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 quite limited in Destin. There is almost no public transit so a car is essential. Some condo complexes do over golf carts to get around the grounds.

Is Mexico City or Destin a more walkable city?

Mexico City is a moderate city for its walkability. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its high level of walkability.

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.

Destin is not a very walkable city. The area is very spread out and not walkable so you'll need a car to access restaurants and most forms of entertainment.

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

Should I spend more time in Destin or Mexico City?

How long in Mexico City or Destin?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mexico City than Destin 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 Destin?

Mexico City is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the peaceful beach town of Destin. 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 Destin?

Mexico City is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the beautiful destination of Destin. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This beach 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 Destin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mexico City. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the family-friendly beach town of Destin. 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 Destin?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the diverse big city of Mexico City. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the destination of Destin. 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 beach 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Mexico City and Destin, we can see that Destin is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Destin Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Mexico City or Destin?

Mexico City has a larger population, and is about 930 times larger than the population of Destin. When comparing the sizes of Mexico City and Destin, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.