A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mexico City vs. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Mexico City or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

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

Should I visit Mexico City or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? 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 colorful, cultural, and diverse 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.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a vast, overlooked, and underrated park. With stunning beauty, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park travel costs.

Mexico City and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park: 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
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Mexico City or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Mexico City than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Mexico City is more touristy than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and is popular for its vibrant street food scene, colorful markets, and historic architecture. Also, Mexico City is famous for Zócalo. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is well known for its alpine lakes, hydrothermal activity, and unique volcanoes.

How is Mexico City different from Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Mexico City
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mexico City is an amazing city to visit for its sights and museums. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visit the Loomis Museum to learn about the park history and see historic photos of the park. The building was constructed in 1972 and is worth a stopover.


Is the Food Better in Mexico City or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mexico City
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mexico City is an amazing city to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Mexico City have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. You'll find restaurants and shops at three locations within the park. Options are much more limited during the winter months, but you will find places to eat on the south side of the park in Mineral, Mill Creek, and Chester. On the north side, the closest towns are Shingletown and Old Station.

Is Mexico City or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Mexico City
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mexico City is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for nightlife and partying.

Mexico City has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park doesn't offer many options. Stargazing and campfire chats are the best ways to enjoy evening in the park.

Is Mexico City or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for its Old Town?

Mexico City
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mexico City is a city with good options for its historic old town. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 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.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Mexico City or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Hiking?

Mexico City
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. There are more than 150 miles of hiking trails in the park. Many pass by the park's hydrothermal areas, but there are also trails that follow the edge of the alpine lakes or go through flower-filled meadows. Bumpass Hell Trail is one of the most notable hikes, but visitors also enjoy Lassen Peak Trail, Cinder Cone Trail, and Manzanita Lake Loop.

Mexico City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mexico City or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Mexico City
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mexico City is an amazing city to visit for shopping. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park has some nice offerings. There are stores and gift shops near the visitor centers.

Is Mexico City or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park More Beautiful?

Mexico City
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Mexico City is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park attracts visitors from all around. Beautiful lakes and mountains, without the large crowds of the more well-known parks, make this a great natural destination.

Mexico City is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Mexico City or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Families?

Mexico City
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mexico City is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a family-friendly city. While many of the hikes in the park are challenging for kids, there are still some great options for those with little legs. Manzanita Lake Trail is less than two miles and makes a great introductory hike. Bumpass Hell Trail is three miles, and it's a highlight of any trip to the park.

Is Mexico City or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Couples?

Mexico City
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Mexico City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The setting makes a romantic backdrop for those who enjoy hiking and outdoor adventures. You can go kayaking or river rafting during the day and then enjoy stargazing at night.

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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mexico City
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mexico City and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park are both excellent 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. There is a large backcountry area which offers a unique hiking and camping experience. You'll need to purchase permits before your trip.


Is Mexico City or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Students?

Mexico City
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mexico City is a well-known place for students. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Mexico City. International students love the art, architecture, food, and culture that this colorful city has to offer.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not popular with students.

Is Mexico City or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Mexico City
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mexico City is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is quite limited in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. There is no public transportation in the park.

Is Mexico City or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park a more walkable city?

Mexico City
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mexico City is a moderate city for its walkability. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park 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.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a very walkable city. The park is large, so to efficiently access the different hiking trails you'll need to have a car.


For even more information, also check out Is Mexico City Worth Visiting? and Is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Mexico City?

How long in Mexico City or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

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

Families should spend more time in Mexico City than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mexico City 3-5 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 2-3

One day in Mexico City or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Each neighborhood in Mexico City has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the underrated park of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Mexico City, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Each neighborhood in Mexico City has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the vast destination of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This park 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Each neighborhood in Mexico City has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

The underrated park of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park offers . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Mexico City is a popular choice for travelers. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.


Which place is cheaper, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 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
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Mexico City $212
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $148

The average daily cost (per person) in Mexico City is $212, while the average daily cost in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is $148. 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mexico City $38
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mexico City $76
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $124
Compare Hotels in Mexico City and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Looking for a hotel in Mexico City or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mexico City $12
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $56
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:

  • Inbursa Aquarium optional Round trip transfer: $20
  • Private Transfer from Airport to Hotel in Mexico City: $27
  • Mexico City Private Airport Transfer : $29
  • Mexico to Mexico City Airport (MEX) Departure Arrival Transfer: $31
  • Mexico City International Airport (MEX) to Mexico City- Private Arrival Transfer: $31
  • Roundtrip Private Transfer from Mexico City Airport (MEX): $32
  • Transfer & assistance one-way from/to Mexico City Airport/hotel : $34
  • Private Departure Transfer: Hotel to Mexico City Airport: $34
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Mexico APT-HTL (MEX) : $36
  • Private Transfer From Mexico City Airport to Downtown: $40
  • Toluca Airport (TLC) to Toluca - Arrival Private Transfer: $49
  • Private Transfers from Airport to Hotel: $55

Is it cheaper to fly into Mexico City or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Prices for flights to both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 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
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $52
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
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $21

Tours and Activities in Mexico City

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

  • CDMX: Museum of Memory and Tolerance - Children in Silence (Admission ticket): $1.36
  • Museum Memory and Tolerance-Children in Silence ticket entry: $1.45
  • MUCHO Museum of Chocolate Entrance Ticket: $4.36
  • Mexico City (Historic Centre) Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Tour: $5.13
  • Mexico City (Coyoacan) Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $5.16
  • Flavors of the past: A Pre-Hispanic drink tour in Mexico city. : $5.59
  • Free Mexico City Centre Tour: $5.59
  • CDMX: Museum of Memory and Tolerance - Anne Frank (Entrance ticket): $6.81
  • Hidden Gems of Exploration Game and Tour: $7.51
  • La Roma's Famous Sights and Local Lore: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Double Decker Bus Night Tour: $8.17
  • Guided tour POR the Basilica DE Guadalupe with architect: $8.34

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mexico City $19
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $19

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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, we can see that Mexico City is more expensive. And not only is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park.

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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Expensive?.