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

Should you visit Mexico City or Halifax?

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

Should I visit Mexico City or Halifax? 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 food, shopping, and museums. See Mexico City travel costs.

Halifax

Halifax is a friendly, cultural, and historical city. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Halifax travel costs.

Mexico City and Halifax: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • 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
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Mexico City or Halifax?

You'll generally find more things to do in Mexico City than Halifax. Mexico City is bigger than Halifax, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Mexico City is well known for its vibrant street food scene, colorful markets, and historic architecture. Also, Mexico City is famous for Zócalo. Halifax is well known for its maritime past.

How is Mexico City different from Halifax?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Mexico City
Halifax

Mexico City is renowned for its museums and history. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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.

Halifax offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You should head to Pier 21, where you'll find the Canadian Museum of Immigration. The Discovery Center is a great spot for kids, as is the Natural History Museum. Finally, check out the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.


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

Mexico City
Halifax

Mexico City is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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 Halifax. You'll find lobster rolls and other seafood around town, but also make sure you try the Halifax donair, which is a shaved beef sandwich wrap that can be found a many pizza restaurants.

Is Mexico City or Halifax Better for Nightlife?

Mexico City
Halifax

Mexico City is renowned for nightlife. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Halifax has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a laid back atmosphere to the nightlife scene. There are casual bars and pubs where you can meet the locals and a few nightclubs where there's a relaxed but fun atmosphere.

Is Mexico City or Halifax Better for its Old Town?

Mexico City
Halifax

Mexico City is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Halifax 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.

Halifax does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Mexico City or Halifax?

Mexico City
Halifax

Mexico City is renowned for shopping. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Halifax offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find a mix of boutiques, artisan shops, large malls, and shopping centers.

Is Mexico City or Halifax Better for Families?

Mexico City
Halifax

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

Mexico City is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Halifax. There are a handful of kid-friendly museums like the Museum of Natural History. Kids will also appreciate a visit to the Discovery Center or stretching their legs at Point Pleasant Park. History lovers should go see the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.

Is Mexico City or Halifax Better for Couples?

Mexico City
Halifax

With fun activities for couples, both Mexico City and Halifax 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.

Halifax is a nice destination for couples. Couples can wander down the waterfront or take a stroll through Point Pleasant Park. The city also has number of romantic restaurants and hotels.


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

Mexico City
Halifax

Mexico City is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Halifax is a good city to visit for backpackers. There's actually a decent number of hostels around town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Mexico City or Halifax Better for Students?

Mexico City
Halifax

Mexico City is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Halifax 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.

Halifax is not popular with students.

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

Mexico City
Halifax

Mexico City is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find some public transit in Halifax, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses around town as well as a ferry to Dartmouth.


Is Mexico City or Halifax a more walkable city?

Mexico City
Halifax

Halifax is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Mexico City is lacking in options for its walkability.

Halifax is a somewhat walkable city. It's a compact town that's relatively easy to explore on foot.

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 Halifax Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Halifax or Mexico City?

How long in Mexico City or Halifax?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Mexico City and Halifax. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Mexico City than in Halifax. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mexico City, and 2-3 days is enough time in Halifax.

Families should spend more time in Mexico City than Halifax. 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 Halifax. 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 Halifax 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 Halifax? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mexico City 3-5 
    Halifax 2-3

One day in Mexico City or Halifax?

Because Mexico City is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical city of Halifax. 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 Halifax?

Because Mexico City is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historical destination of Halifax. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Mexico City or Halifax?

Mexico City is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mexico City has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

The historical city of Halifax offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Mexico City or Halifax?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mexico City. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Mexico City. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Halifax. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Vancouver.


Which place is cheaper, Halifax 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
    Halifax Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Mexico City $212
    Halifax $137

The average daily cost (per person) in Mexico City is $212, while the average daily cost in Halifax is $137. 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 Halifax in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mexico City $38
    Halifax $65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mexico City $76
    Halifax $130
Compare Hotels in Mexico City and Halifax

Looking for a hotel in Mexico City or Halifax? 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 Halifax


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 Halifax Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mexico City $12
    Halifax $17
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:

  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Mexico APT-HTL (MEX) : $36
  • Transfer from Mexico City Airport to Puebla: $245
  • Transfer Mexico City Airport to Downtown and Zona Rosa Hotels: $80
  • Transfer Airport - Hotel or vice versa: $58
  • Transfer & assistance one-way from/to Mexico City Airport/hotel : $34
  • Toluca Airport (TLC) to Toluca - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $99
  • Toluca Airport (TLC) to Toluca - Arrival Private Transfer: $49
  • Teotihuacan: Private Balloon Flight with optional Transfer: $293
  • Six Flags Ticket + Hassle-Free Transfers: $116
  • Shared Balloon Flight in Teotihuacan with transfer: $274
  • San Miguel De Allende City Tour with Transfer from Mexico City: $156
  • Roundtrip Private Transfer from Mexico City Airport (MEX): $32

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Halifax

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

  • Private Arrival Transfer from Halifax Stanfield Airport YHZ: $85

Is it cheaper to fly into Mexico City or Halifax?

Prices for flights to both Halifax 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
    Halifax $54
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

Typical Food Prices in Halifax

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


  • Bluenose II Restaurant
    $45

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Halifax

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

  • Peggy's Cove Small Group Night Tour with Dinner: $157

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mexico City $14
    Halifax $28

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

Tours and Activities in Halifax

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

  • Best of Private Walking Tour with a Local: $107
  • Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 Admission & Tour: $14
  • From Peggy's Cove Bus Tour: $75
  • Halifax City Sightseeing by Private a/c vehicle: $151
  • Halifax Guided Driving Tour with Sunset at Peggy’s Cove: $64
  • Halifax Harbourfront Food Walking Tour: $92
  • Halifax Sunset Cruise Aboard the Tall Ship Silva: $33
  • 2-Hour Deep Sea Fishing Tour: $94
  • 2-Hour Sea-Doo Sightseeing Tour: $254
  • 50-Minute Boat Tour of the Harbour: $42
  • Best of Halifax Harbour Tour: $40
  • Georges Island Kayak Tour: $74

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mexico City $19
    Halifax $15

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Halifax

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Halifax:

  • Nova Scotia Annapolis Valley Wine Tour Lead by a Sommelier: $168


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mexico City and Halifax, we can see that Mexico City is more expensive. And not only is Halifax much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Halifax would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Halifax 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 Mexico City would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Mexico City than you might in Halifax.

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 Halifax Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Mexico City or Halifax?

Mexico City has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Halifax. When comparing the sizes of Mexico City and Halifax, 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.