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

Should you visit Mexico City or Naples?

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

Should I visit Mexico City or Naples? 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. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Mexico City travel costs.

Naples

Naples is a nature-filled, relaxing, and peaceful beach town. Naples offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Naples travel costs.

Mexico City and Naples: 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
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Mexico City or Naples?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Mexico City. Although Mexico City and Naples are popular destinations, Mexico City has more sights and attractions for tourists. Mexico City is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Naples attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Naples is more touristy than Mexico City and is known for its white sand, blue water, water sports, and golf resorts. Mexico City is famous for its vibrant street food scene, colorful markets, and historic architecture. It is also well known for Zócalo.

How is Mexico City different from Naples?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Mexico City
Naples

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

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Mexico City has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Naples is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. While most visitors spend most of their time at the beach, on a rainy day you can check out the town's art museums, history museums, or local spots such as the Palm Cottage.


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

Mexico City
Naples

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

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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Naples makes for a great culinary experience. Seafood is a favorite around town, but you'll also find plenty of Italian food. Everything from casual to fine dining is available with many local favorites to choose from.

Is Mexico City or Naples Better for Nightlife?

Mexico City
Naples

Mexico City is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

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.

Naples has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are live music venues, cocktail bars, and dance clubs around town.

Is Mexico City or Naples Better for Resorts?

Mexico City
Naples

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

Naples is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are luxury resorts, family-friendly hotels, and a range of prices to choose from. Most have pools and many have oceanfront views with golf facilities available. Many of the major brands such as Marriott are found here.

Mexico City is not a resort destination.


Is Mexico City or Naples Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mexico City
Naples

Naples is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Mexico City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Naples has a few good snorkeling spots. Snorkeling and scuba diving are both available in the area, in part because of the impressive artificial reefs that have been constructed. Snorkeling is available at Tigertail Beach, Clam Pass, and Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park.

Mexico City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mexico City or Naples Better for Beaches?

Mexico City
Naples

Naples 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 Naples. White sand beaches and calm Gulf waters make this an ideal beach destination. Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park is a favorite beach spot in the area, but you should also check out Naples Municipal Beach which is where you'll find the Naples Pier. If you want a more natural setting, head to Barefoot Beach Preserve County Park.

Mexico City is not a beach destination.

Is Mexico City or Naples Better for its Old Town?

Mexico City
Naples

Mexico City is a city with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Naples does not have a historic old town.

Mexico City has an old town worth visiting. 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.

Naples does not have a historic old town.


Is Mexico City or Naples Better for Hiking?

Mexico City
Naples

Naples is a popular place for its hiking trails. However, Mexico City is not a hiking destination.

Naples is a good destination for hiking. The area is filled with state parks and nature reserves where you can explore and enjoy a scenic hike. There are also greenways and coastal paths nearby.

Mexico City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mexico City or Naples?

Mexico City
Naples

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

Many people travel to Mexico City specifically to go shopping. 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.

Naples is a great destination for shopping. You'll find shopping centers, outlet malls, and plenty of retail space around town. Some of the favorite shopping spots are the Mercato, Coastland Center, and Waterside Shops. For souvenirs and beach items head to Tin City Waterfront Shops.

Is Mexico City or Naples More Beautiful?

Mexico City
Naples

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

Naples offers plenty of beauty for visitors. White sand beaches and beautiful water make this a relaxing and scenic destination.

Mexico City is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Mexico City or Naples Better for Families?

Mexico City
Naples

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

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.

Naples is a very family-friendly place to visit. You'll find relaxing beaches, nice parks, plenty of playgrounds, and even the Golisano Childrens Museum for rainy days. There are also nature centers with great walks as well as gardens and wildlife viewpoints.

Is Mexico City or Naples Better for Couples?

Mexico City
Naples

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

Naples makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Beautiful beaches and relaxing spas make this a favorite couples destination. Golf, high end restaurants and plenty of romantic activities will ensure you have the anniversary trip or honeymoon to remember.

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 Naples Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mexico City
Naples

Mexico City is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Naples. There's a hostel or two in the area as well as cheaper accommodation than other parts of Florida.


Is Mexico City or Naples Better for Students?

Mexico City
Naples

Mexico City is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Naples 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.

Naples is not popular with students.

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

Mexico City
Naples

Mexico City is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Naples is lacking in options for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system 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 Naples. There's a trolley system as well as a public bus system.

Is Mexico City or Naples a more walkable city?

Mexico City
Naples

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

Naples is a somewhat walkable beach town. The downtown area is relatively walkable, but to fully explore the region you'll need your own car.

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 Naples Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Naples or Mexico City?

How long in Mexico City or Naples?

In either Mexico City or Naples, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Mexico City has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Mexico City than Naples. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mexico City, and 2-5 days is enough time in Naples.

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

Couples should spend more time in Naples than Mexico City. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Naples 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 Naples 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 Naples? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mexico City 3-5 
    Naples 2-5

One day in Mexico City or Naples?

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 scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the nature-filled beach town of Naples. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the beaches. 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 Naples?

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 museums when visiting the relaxing destination of Naples. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This beach town 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 Naples?

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 museums and nightlife when visiting the relaxing beach town of Naples. 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 Naples?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the dynamic 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.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Naples. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the beaches. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Naples 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
    Naples Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Mexico City $212
    Naples $277

The average daily cost (per person) in Mexico City is $212, while the average daily cost in Naples is $277. 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 Naples in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mexico City $38
    Naples $119
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mexico City $76
    Naples $238
Compare Hotels in Mexico City and Naples

Looking for a hotel in Mexico City or Naples? 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 Naples


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 Naples Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mexico City $12
    Naples $62
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

Is it cheaper to fly into Mexico City or Naples?

Prices for flights to both Naples 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
    Naples $121
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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Naples

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

  • Tiramisu Cooking Class Carole's Place Cafe Naples, Fl: $99
  • Pasta Making Cooking Class Carole's Place Cafe Naples Fl: $140
  • Traditional Greek Cooking Class in Naples Florida: $224

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mexico City $14
    Naples $26

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 Naples

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

  • 10,000 Islands Boat Tour + Naturalist Led Walk in the Everglades!: $169
  • 2 Hour Dolphin, Birding and Shelling Tour: $110
  • 2 Hour Naples Sunset Adventure: $64
  • 2-hour Shelling Boat Tour in the 10,000 Islands: $110
  • 2Hour Everglades Kayak Safari Adventure Through Mangrove Tunnels: $89
  • 90 Minute Segway Tour - Explore Naples Florida - Family Fun: $49
  • Backwater Adventure's CraigCat Tours of the 10,000 Islands: $130
  • Best Family Activity - Trike Tour Of Naples - All Ages Fun!: $69
  • Best of Marco Island Tour: $100
  • CLEAR Kayak Sunset & Light Tour - Bonita Springs / Ft Myers Beach: $79
  • Dolphin Watch/Eco Cruise: $97
  • Dolphin and Manatee Adventure Tour of Naples with Florida History: $65

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mexico City $19
    Naples $38

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 Naples, we can see that Naples 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 Naples would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Naples 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 Naples Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Mexico City or Naples?

Mexico City has a larger population, and is about 520 times larger than the population of Naples. When comparing the sizes of Mexico City and Naples, 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.