Which place is cheaper, Mexico City or Paris?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
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Should you visit Paris or Mexico City?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
Should I visit Paris or Mexico City? 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.
Paris
Paris is a energetic, beautiful, and iconic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Paris is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music. See Paris travel costs.
Mexico City
Mexico City is a diverse, vibrant, and dynamic 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.
Paris and Mexico City: Pros and Cons
Paris
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Numerous theater shows
- Active nightlife
- Good music scene
- Popular at Christmas
- Known for its beauty
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Very walkable
- Big city activities
- Impressive beauty
- Home to the Eiffel Tower
Mexico City
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Active nightlife
- Scenic old town
- Family-friendly
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Big city activities
- Less popular with couples
- Less walkable
Is there more to do in Paris or Mexico City?
Visitors will generally find more to do in Paris than Mexico City. While Mexico City is larger than Paris, Paris has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Paris is better known for its theatre productions, music, and impressive beauty, while Mexico City is more popular for its historical sights. Paris is more touristy than Mexico City and is known for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. Also, Paris is famous for The Eiffel Tower. Mexico City is well known for its vibrant street food scene, colorful markets, and historic architecture.
The Eiffel Tower
How is Paris different from Mexico City?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mexico City and Paris. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Paris or Mexico City?
Paris
Mexico City
Spend time exploring the first-rate sights and museums in either Paris or Mexico City.
Travelers visit Paris from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.
The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Mexico City are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.
Is Paris or Mexico City Better for Theater?
Paris
Mexico City
Paris is very popular for its shows and theatre. However, Mexico City is not a theatre destination.
The theater and performance venues in Paris draw crowds from around the world. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.
Mexico City is not a theatre destination.
Is the Food Better in Paris or Mexico City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?
Paris
Mexico City
Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Paris and Mexico City.
For foodies, Paris is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.
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.
Is Paris or Mexico City Better for Nightlife?
Paris
Mexico City
The vibe at night is first-rate in both Paris and Mexico City.
Paris is a must-see party destination. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.
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.
Is Paris or Mexico City Better for Music?
Paris
Mexico City
Paris is very popular for its music scene. However, Mexico City is not a live music destination.
Paris has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.
Mexico City is not a live music destination.
Is Paris or Mexico City Better for its Old Town?
Paris
Mexico City
Mexico City is a popular place for its historic old town. However, Paris 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.
Paris does not have a historic old town.
Is the Shopping Better in Paris or Mexico City?
Paris
Mexico City
If you're looking to go shopping, Paris and Mexico City both offer plenty of first-rate spots.
People travel from around the world to go shopping in Paris. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.
The abundance of shops in Mexico City make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.
Is Paris or Mexico City More Beautiful?
Paris
Mexico City
Paris is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, Mexico City is not a destination known for its beauty.
Paris is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It is famous for it's beautiful buildings, grand avenues, and impressive gardens. Many consider it among the most romantic and beautiful cities in the world.
Mexico City is not a destination known for its beauty.
Is Paris or Mexico City Better for Families?
Paris
Mexico City
Paris is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Mexico City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.
As it has a large number of activities for kids, Paris is a very family-friendly destination. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.
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.
Is Paris or Mexico City Better for Couples?
Paris
Mexico City
Paris is very popular for couples. Also, Mexico City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.
Paris makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.
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 Paris or Mexico City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
Paris
Mexico City
Paris is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Mexico City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.
A large number of backpackers visit Paris, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.
Backpackers come from all over to 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.
Is Paris or Mexico City Better for Students?
Paris
Mexico City
Paris is very popular for its student-friendly activities. Also, Mexico City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.
Many students frequent Paris. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.
Mexico City is very popular with students. International students love the art, architecture, food, and culture that this colorful city has to offer.
Is Paris or Mexico City Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?
Paris
Mexico City
Paris 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.
Paris has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.
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 Paris or Mexico City a more walkable city?
Paris
Mexico City
Paris is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Mexico City is lacking in options for its walkability.
Paris is a very walkable destination. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored 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 Paris Worth Visiting? and Is Mexico City Worth Visiting?.
Should I spend more time in Mexico City or Paris?
How long in Paris or Mexico City?
In either Paris or Mexico City, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Paris than Mexico City because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Paris, and 3-5 days is enough time in Mexico City.
Families should spend more time in Paris than Mexico City. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Paris, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Paris than Mexico City. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Paris that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paris than Mexico City 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 Paris.
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How many days in Paris or Mexico City? Ideal Length of StayParis 3-7Mexico City 3-5
One day in Paris or Mexico City?
Paris is a iconic city where you can fill many days. 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.
In Mexico City, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this vibrant big city offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.
A weekend in Paris or Mexico City?
Paris is a bustling big city where you can fill many days. 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.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mexico City. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.
Five days in Paris or Mexico City?
Paris is a beautiful city where you can fill many days. 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.
Mexico City is a fun place to experience. In Mexico City, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this big city destination offers. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.
A week in Paris or Mexico City?
Paris is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.
You'll find food and shopping around the diverse big city of Mexico City. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico.
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Paris Prices
France PricesMexico City Prices
Mexico Prices -
Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayParis €265Mexico City €181
The average daily cost (per person) in Paris is €265, while the average daily cost in Mexico City is €181. 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 Paris and Mexico City in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personParis €153Mexico City €33
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomParis €306Mexico City €66
Compare Hotels in Paris and Mexico City
Looking for a hotel in Paris or Mexico City? 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.
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: Paris Hotel Prices and Mexico City Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Paris €21Mexico City €10
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Paris
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Paris are as follows:
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Metro€6.40
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Train from Airport€9.00
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Metro tickets€6.80
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Train€20
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Paris
Also for Paris, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Versailles Palace Tour With Private Transfers & Audio Guide: $214
- VERSAILLES CASTLE Round-Trip Transfer from Paris by Luxury Van: $218
- VAN transfer from Paris to Roissy CDG or Orly airport: $185
- VAN and Sedan Transfers CDG Airports Disney Asterix Paris : $155
- Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Paris HTL-APT (CDG): $101
- Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Paris APT-HTL (CDG): $101
- Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer in Orly HTL-APT (ORY): $96
- Transfers between Paris, CDG, Orly, Disneyland & Versaille by van: $95
- Transfers between Paris and Paris Airports/Disneyland/Versailles: $126
- Transfers Private: Paris-Aéroports/Paris-Disneyland, France: $118
- Transfer: Charles Gaulle Airport-CDG to Paris City Center: $58
- Transfer in Paris in Portuguese: $228
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Mexico City
Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Mexico City:
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Metro€0.93
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Uber Ride€3.24
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Mexico City
Also for Mexico City, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary Visit with Transfer: $599
- Teotihuacan: Private Balloon Flight with optional Transfer: $293
- Shared Balloon Flight in Teotihuacan with transfer: $274
- Mexico Airport (MEX) Tecozautla - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $252
- Transfer from Mexico City Airport to Puebla: $245
- Mexico Airport(MEX) to Chignahuapan - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $236
- CDMX: Fly over Teotihuacan in a hot air balloon, with transfers and breakfast included.: $219
- Mexico City Private Transfer to or from Airport: $216
- Airport Transfer: Mexico to Mexico Airport NLU by Luxury SUV: $203
- Private Transfer from Mexico City to Pachuca: $192
- Private Transfer from Pachuca to Mexico City: $192
- Private Departure Transfer from Toluca City hotels to Toluca airport: $174
Is it cheaper to fly into Paris or Mexico City?
Prices for flights to both Mexico City and Paris 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
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Food Meals for one dayParis €72Mexico City €37
Typical Food Prices in Paris
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Paris:
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Ice Cream€8.00
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Breakfast€7.00
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Breakfast for 2€30
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Dinner on River Cruise€86
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Dinner€57
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Cheese€13
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Paris
For Paris, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- Authentic Indian Dinner in Paris : $65
- Paris Capitaine Fracasse 3 Course Seine River Dinner Cruise: $68
- Paris Seine River dinner cruise from Alexandre III bridge: $70
- Paris Prestige Dinner Cruise from Eiffel Tower Area: $74
- Paris en Scene 3 Course Seine River Dinner Cruise: $77
- Paris Vegan Street Food Tour: $77
- Paris Food Tour: $82
- Seine River Sightseeing Cruise and Dinner at Le Bistro Parisien: $84
- #1 Montmartre Pastries & Chocolate Food Tour with 6+ Tastings: $89
- Champagne & Oysters Paris Food Tour: $96
- Dinner Paris by Night EN Bus Panoramic: $101
- Amazing Sweet Crêpe Cooking Class Paris: $105
Typical Food Prices in Mexico City
For Mexico City, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:
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Lunch for Two€10
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Coffee and Snacks€3.61
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Dinner for 2€21
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
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Paris €76Mexico City €12
Typical Entertainment Prices in Paris
For Paris, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:
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Louvre Entry for Two€18
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Admission to Pantheon€5.00
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Catacombs (2)€23
Tours and Activities in Paris
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Paris.
- A Day at Parc Saint-Paul Ticket and Transport Included: $226
- Area ,Opera, Jewellery,Fashion,Palais Royal walking tour : $74
- Audio-Guided Montparnasse Tower Tour with Priority Admission: $42
- Bruges Guided Day Trip with Canal Cruise Option and Hotel Pickup: $270
- Guided Tour to Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur Chronicles: $36
- Half Day Giverny Monet's Gardens Tour : $172
- Louvre Evening Escape: Avoid the Crowds - Exclusive Guided Tour : $150
- Musée d'Orsay Rebels Passion Colour. A Private Guided Tour: $144
- Notre-Dame Exterior & Sainte-Chapelle Medieval Paris Tour : $70
- Père Lachaise Cemetery Walking Tour - Semi-Private 12ppl Max: $62
- Paris City Center Self-Guided Walking Tour : $12
- Paris Entrance Ticket to the Aura Invalides Immersive Show: $33
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
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayParis €24Mexico City €16
Typical Alcohol Prices in Paris
Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Paris are as follows:
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Wine€14
Sample the Local Flavors in Paris
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Paris:
- Original Paris Pub Crawl : $24
- Paris Nation wine tasting: $46
- Paris St Germain Wine Tasting: $46
- Vegan Wine Tasting in Paris right next to Père Lachaise: $54
- Wine Tasting in Paris right next to Père Lachaise & l'Atelier des lumières: $54
- Wine tasting Paris Saint Germain des Pres: $56
- Cheese and Wine Tasting in the Latin Quarter with Chef Alex: $58
- Natural Wine Tasting with Cheese Pairings in Paris: $72
- French Wine Tasting and Pairing Experience in Montmartre: $90
- The only Paris Wine Tasting experience you need to do - 2 hours : $95
- Left Bank Gastronomy & Wine tour with a Culinary School : $113
- Walk & Wine Tour in the Latin Quarter: $118
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 Paris and Mexico City, we can see that Paris is more expensive. And not only is Mexico City much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Paris is in Europe and Mexico City is in North 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 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 Paris would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paris 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 Paris Expensive? and Is Mexico City Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Paris or Mexico City?
Mexico City has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Paris. When comparing the sizes of Paris and Mexico City, 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.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.