A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mexico City vs. Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Mexico City or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

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

Should I visit Mexico City or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado 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 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.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a remote, local, and authentic town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. With stunning beauty, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) travel costs.

Mexico City and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park): Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mexico City or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Mexico City than Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Mexico City is well known for its vibrant street food scene, colorful markets, and historic architecture. Also, Mexico City is famous for Zócalo. Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is well known for its fishing and wildlife.

How is Mexico City different from Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Mexico City is very popular for its sights and museums. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town 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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). People visit the town for the nearby national park, so you won't find much in the form of museums.

Is the Food Better in Mexico City or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mexico City is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not as famous, but is still a good 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.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Many places have local Costa Rican dishes, but you'll also find pizza joints and the occasional cafe as well.

Is Mexico City or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Nightlife?

Mexico City is very popular for nightlife. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

Mexico City is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). There are a few bars on the town's main street, but most visitors don't come to town for the nightlife.

Is Mexico City or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is an excellent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Mexico City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). You'll find nice snorkeling with calm waters and you might even see dolphins.

Mexico City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mexico City or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Beaches?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is an excellent place to visit for the beach. However, Mexico City is not a beach destination.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is considered a top beach destination. Near town you'll find wonderful beaches and long stretches of sand bordered by lush rainforests.

Mexico City is not a beach destination.

Is Mexico City or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for its Old Town?

Mexico City is very good for its historic old town. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado 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.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) does not have a historic old town.

Is Mexico City or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Hiking?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Corcovado National Park can be challenging to reach, which is part of what makes it such a wonderful place to explore. The rainforest and wildlife still feels untouched by the tourist crowds and you can lose yourself hiking through the forest.

Mexico City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mexico City or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Mexico City is very popular for shopping. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town 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, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) has some nice offerings. It's a small local town so you won't find many shopping options that cater to tourists.

Is Mexico City or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) More Beautiful?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado 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, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) attracts visitors from all around. The beaches, wildlife, and rainforests make this a unique and beautiful place to visit.

Mexico City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Mexico City or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Mexico City or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park).

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.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the beaches, kayaking, surfing, wildlife, hiking, and swimming. There really is something for the whole family to enjoy.

Is Mexico City or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Couples?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Mexico City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will love the stunning nature and wildlife that nearby Corcovado National Park offers. There are also many great beaches where you can take a stroll or go kayaking.

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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mexico City and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are both great 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). It's become a popular backpacker destination because there are a number of hostels nearby.

Is Mexico City or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Students?

Mexico City is a well-known place for students. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not popular with students.

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

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not popular with students.

Is Mexico City or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Mexico City is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Mexico City can move around easily with public transportation. The city has a complex and comprehensive public transit system that includes a metro, metrobus, and local buses.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) has some public transit options. Many visitors take the colectivo taxi, which is a flatbed truck that is more affordable than private taxis.

Is Mexico City or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) a more walkable city?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Mexico City is lacking in options for its walkability.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a very walkable destination. The town is relatively easy to walk around.

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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Mexico City?

How long in Mexico City or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

It's fun to spend time in either Mexico City or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Generally, people tend to spend more time in Mexico City due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mexico City, and 3-4 days is enough time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park).

Couples should spend more time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) than Mexico City. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado 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.

One day in Mexico City or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Each neighborhood in Mexico City has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers something for everyone.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the authentic town of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Each neighborhood in Mexico City has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food when visiting the local destination of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Mexico City is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. 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 authentic town of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Mexico City is a great place to explore. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food when visiting Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come 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 Luxury Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Budget Tours to Costa Rica.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mexico City and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park), we can see that Mexico City is more expensive. And not only is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Mexico City is in North America and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is in Central America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Expensive?.