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

Should you visit Rio de Janeiro or Mexico City?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Rio de Janeiro and Mexico City can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro is a festive, diverse, and high energy city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Rio de Janeiro is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Rio de Janeiro travel costs.

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. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Mexico City travel costs.

Rio de Janeiro and Mexico City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rio de Janeiro or Mexico City?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Rio de Janeiro than Mexico City. While Mexico City is larger than Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro has more sights and attractions for tourists. Rio de Janeiro is very popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Mexico City attracts visitors for its historical sights. Rio de Janeiro is more touristy than Mexico City and is popular for its samba dancing, sandy beaches, and Carnival. It is also well known for Christ the Redeemer. Mexico City is famous for its vibrant street food scene, colorful markets, and historic architecture.

How is Rio de Janeiro different from Mexico City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mexico City and Rio de Janeiro. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Rio de Janeiro or Mexico City?

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Rio de Janeiro or Mexico City.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Rio de Janeiro on the map. Looking out over the city is the world famous landmark of Christ the Redeemer. It sits on top of Corcovado Mountain and it is a must-see destination for visitors to the city. Other sights around town include the church and monastery of São Bento, the stunning church of São Francisco da Penitência, the imperial palaces of São Cristóvão, and the baroque church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo.

Travelers visit Mexico City from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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 the Food Better in Rio de Janeiro or Mexico City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Rio de Janeiro and Mexico City both to be terrific destinations.

Many restaurants in Rio de Janeiro have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The cuisine around town mixes African and European cooking styles to give it a unique taste. The city is a mix of cultures and flavors and you'll find restaurants that integrate traditional Brazilian dishes with international influences. You'll find a wonderful street food scene, but also fine dining, and everything in between. Some of the most popular dishes include feijoada (beef and bean stew), churrasco (Brazilian barbecue), and pão de queijo (baked dough and cheese).

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.

Is Rio de Janeiro or Mexico City Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Rio de Janeiro or Mexico City has a better nightlife scene.

People head to Rio de Janeiro just to party. It has a world famous nightlife scene, and the most popular party neighborhood is Lapa. While the biggest crowds are on the weekends, weeknights stay busy as well. Every weekend in Lapa there's a huge street party, but there are also bars and dance clubs nearby. A more local neighborhood is Botafogo, which is a great area to grab a beer and enjoy a relaxed night out. If you want a beachside bar, check out the touristy neighborhoods of Ipanema and Copacabana.

The nightlife in Mexico City is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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 Rio de Janeiro or Mexico City Better for Beaches?

Rio de Janeiro 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 Rio de Janeiro. The beaches have long been written about and made iconic by songs and literary works. Copacabana and Ipanema are world renowned, and the sandy stretches and vibrant waterfront promenades will not disappoint. There are plenty of recreational activities as well as a striking blue water backdrop. You'll find beach parties, waterside bars, and pickup games of football or volleyball. In addition to these iconic beaches, there are several lesser known places to visit like Joatinga and Barra da Tijuca.

Mexico City is not a beach destination.

Is Rio de Janeiro or Mexico City Better for its Old Town?

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

Mexico City offers a nice historic old town area. 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.

Rio de Janeiro does not have a historic old town.

Is Rio de Janeiro or Mexico City Better for Hiking?

Rio de Janeiro is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Mexico City is not a hiking destination.

People visit Rio de Janeiro specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Although it is a bustling megacity, it also offers access to world class hikes. The city is filled with mountains and dramatic peaks, so many hikes take you to spectacular views of the city. There are also jungle hikes and even opportunities to see local wildlife. There's a combination of iconic trails and lesser known strolls that will let you truly absorb what this city has to offer. Some of the best hikes include Pedra Bonita, Dois Irmaos, and Pedra da Gávea.

Mexico City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rio de Janeiro or Mexico City?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Mexico City and Rio de Janeiro.

Rio de Janeiro is a world class destination for shoppers. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Whatever your budget, there are options for you. There are wonderful street markets for those on a budget and grand shopping malls if you're looking for something a bit higher end. Some of the best places for shopping include Rio Sul, Barra Shopping, and SAARA Market.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Mexico City. 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 Rio de Janeiro or Mexico City More Beautiful?

Rio de Janeiro is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, Mexico City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Rio de Janeiro is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The city's mountainous landscapes and striking beaches make it, arguably, one of the most beautiful cities in the world. There are many mountaintop views of the city as well as city hikes and iconic neighborhoods.

Mexico City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Rio de Janeiro or Mexico City Better for Families?

Both Rio de Janeiro and Mexico City are excellent to visit with kids.

Rio de Janeiro is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the beaches. It's easy to spend days by the water soaking up the sun. Another must-do is a trip up Sugarloaf Mountain. The cable cars are fun and there are jungle walks and spectacular views. If you need to escape the rain or heat, spend the day at the Museum of Tomorrow.

Mexico City is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Rio de Janeiro or Mexico City Better for Couples?

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

Rio de Janeiro makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many parks and gardens around town that are perfect for a stroll. Nature lovers will enjoy the many hikes in the area, many which go through the jungle, visit waterfalls, or offer spectacular views. And, of course, Sugarloaf Mountain is a must-see destination, as are the many beaches in the area.

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 Rio de Janeiro or Mexico City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rio de Janeiro 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 Rio de Janeiro, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. Backpackers flock to the city for its wild nightlife scene and beautiful beaches. There's a huge backpacker culture here and many hostels around town that offer a social setting and plenty of activities for guests.

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 Rio de Janeiro or Mexico City Better for Students?

Mexico City is a great destination for students. However, Rio de Janeiro 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.

Rio de Janeiro is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Rio de Janeiro and Mexico City.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Rio de Janeiro. The city has a subway system, MetroRio, that is relatively reliable and convenient. There are also city buses, trams, and commuter trains.

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 Rio de Janeiro or Mexico City a more walkable city?

Rio de Janeiro is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Mexico City is lacking in options for its walkability.

Rio de Janeiro is a very walkable destination. Most of the areas where tourists spend their time are relatively walkable. Centro is compact and many tourists choose to explore areas on foot. As always, remember to take the appropriate safety precautions and always be aware of your surroundings.

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 Rio de Janeiro Worth Visiting? and Is Mexico City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mexico City or Rio de Janeiro?

How long in Rio de Janeiro or Mexico City?

In either Rio de Janeiro or Mexico City, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Rio de Janeiro than Mexico City because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 4-6 days is a good amount of time for Rio de Janeiro, and 3-5 days is enough time in Mexico City.

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

Couples should spend more time in Rio de Janeiro than Mexico City. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Rio de Janeiro that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rio de Janeiro 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 Rio de Janeiro.

One day in Rio de Janeiro or Mexico City?

Rio de Janeiro is a multicultural city where you can fill many days. 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.

In Mexico City, you'll find museums and nightlife. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Rio de Janeiro or Mexico City?

Rio de Janeiro is a multicultural big city where you can fill many days. 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.

Mexico City is a great place to explore. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Rio de Janeiro or Mexico City?

Rio de Janeiro is a colorful city where you can fill many days. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mexico City. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Rio de Janeiro or Mexico City?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Rio de Janeiro. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Mexico City. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Brazil, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rio de Janeiro, The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Rio de Janeiro Expensive? and Is Mexico City Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Rio de Janeiro or Mexico City?

Mexico City has a larger population, and is about 87% larger than the population of Rio de Janeiro. When comparing the sizes of Rio de Janeiro 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.