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

Should you visit Mexico City or Vancouver?

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

Should I visit Mexico City or Vancouver? 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 cultural, diverse, and vibrant city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Mexico City travel costs.

Vancouver

Vancouver is a outdoorsy, scenic, and diverse city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, Vancouver attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Vancouver travel costs.

Mexico City and Vancouver: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mexico City or Vancouver?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Vancouver than Mexico City. While Mexico City is larger than Vancouver, Vancouver has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Vancouver is better known for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Mexico City is more popular for its food, nightlife, and historical sights. Vancouver is more touristy than Mexico City and is known for its beautiful setting, sweeping views, and welcoming atmosphere. Also, Vancouver is famous for Stanley Park. Mexico City is well known for its vibrant street food scene, colorful markets, and historic architecture.

How is Mexico City different from Vancouver?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of amazing museums and attractions in both Vancouver and Mexico City.

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.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Vancouver that are not to be missed. There are tons of museums and sights around town such as the Vancouver Aquarium, the Museum of Anthropology, the Museum of Vancouver, and Science World. Also make sure you take a walk over the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

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

Mexico City is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Vancouver is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Mexico City, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Vancouver. You'll find diverse restaurants and fresh ingredients. Local seafood is a staple in many restaurants so make sure you try the prawns, salmon, and even sea urchin. Asian food is also excellent around town. Sushi, Japanese hot dogs, and dim sum are all worth sampling.

Is Mexico City or Vancouver Better for Nightlife?

Mexico City is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Vancouver is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Mexico City is a world class 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.

Vancouver has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has a vibrant nightlife scene. Most of the activity is centered around The Granville Entertainment District in the downtown area. It runs along Granville Street between Robson Street and Davie Street. In the area you'll find a high concentration of bars and nightclubs.

Is Mexico City or Vancouver Better for its Old Town?

Mexico City is a good destination for its historic old town. However, Vancouver 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.

Vancouver does not have a historic old town.

Is Mexico City or Vancouver Better for Hiking?

Vancouver is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Mexico City is not a hiking destination.

People visit Vancouver specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The city is surrounded by water and mountains, making it one of the best hiking cities in the world. You don't have to go far to enjoy spectacular vistas, serene rainforests, and rugged coastline. The trails range from casual strolls to more strenuous day long hikes.

Mexico City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mexico City or Vancouver?

Shoppers can find a variety of amazing stores in both Mexico City and Vancouver.

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.

Vancouver is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. You can enjoy strolling through Chinatown, hitting up a public market, or wandering around a large shopping mall.

Is Mexico City or Vancouver More Beautiful?

Vancouver 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, Vancouver attracts visitors from all around. It sits between the Pacific Ocean and high reaching mountains, so the city offers spectacular views.

Mexico City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Mexico City or Vancouver Better for Families?

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

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.

Vancouver is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are great kid-friendly museums like the Science Museum, as well as outdoor markets, public parks, and easy access to the nearby nature. A visit to Grouse Mountain is a must for many families. You can see the bears, take a gondola, and see the a lumberjack show.

Is Mexico City or Vancouver Better for Couples?

Vancouver is very popular for couples. Also, Mexico City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Vancouver makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Most of the activities take advantage of the beautiful outdoor setting. You can take a carriage ride in Stanley Park or visit the Sun Yat Sen Chinese Garden. Eat dim sum in Chinatown and then wander through the diverse neighborhood. End the day with a show at Orpheum Theater.

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 Vancouver Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mexico City and Vancouver are both superb 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 Vancouver. It's a favorite city for backpackers who enjoy the many outdoor activities. There are also many hostels available around town.

Is Mexico City or Vancouver Better for Students?

Both Mexico City and Vancouver are superb destinations for students.

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

Vancouver is very popular with students. The cities friendly personality and fun energy make it a great place to study.

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

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

Vancouver has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. Public transit is efficient and comfortable. The Translink system includes buses, the SeaBus ferry, and the SkyTrain light rail system.

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.

Is Mexico City or Vancouver a more walkable city?

Vancouver is very popular for its ease of walking around. However, Mexico City is lacking in options for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Vancouver. The downtown area is very compact and fun 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 Vancouver Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vancouver or Mexico City?

How long in Mexico City or Vancouver?

In either Mexico City or Vancouver, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Vancouver has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Vancouver than Mexico City. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

One day in Mexico City or Vancouver?

People visit Mexico City because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the scenic city of Vancouver. 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 Vancouver?

People visit Mexico City because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the diverse big city of Vancouver. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city 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 Vancouver?

People visit Mexico City because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the diverse city of Vancouver. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Vancouver?

Mexico City is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Vancouver. 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 10-Day Tours from Vancouver, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mexico City and Vancouver, we can see that Mexico City is more expensive. And not only is Vancouver much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Vancouver would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Vancouver 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 Vancouver.

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 Vancouver Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Mexico City or Vancouver?

Mexico City has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Vancouver. When comparing the sizes of Mexico City and Vancouver, 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.