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

Should you visit Tromso 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 Tromso 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.

Tromso

Tromso is a one-of-a-kind, spectacular, and remote town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Tromso is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, nightlife, and food. See Tromso 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. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Mexico City travel costs.

Tromso and Mexico City: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Northern Lights
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
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
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Tromso or Mexico City?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Mexico City than Tromso. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Mexico City is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Tromso attracts visitors for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Tromso is more touristy than Mexico City and is known for its stunning nature, beautiful Arctic landscape, and breathtaking fjords. Mexico City is famous for its vibrant street food scene, colorful markets, and historic architecture. It is also well known for Zócalo.

How is Tromso different from Mexico City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tromso or Mexico City?

Tromso
Mexico City

Mexico City is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. However, Tromso does not have 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.

Tromso does not have museums and landmarks. You can learn about everything having to do with the Arctic at the museum, Polaria. There's also the the Polar Museum, the Arctic Cathedral, and Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum.


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

Tromso
Mexico City

Mexico City is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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, Tromso makes for a great culinary experience. Fish is the staple around town and you'll find local seasonal fish dishes. There are also modern restaurants that serve international cuisines or trendy options.

Is Tromso or Mexico City Better for Nightlife?

Tromso
Mexico City

Mexico City is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Tromso. There's a good nightlife scene with many bars and clubs that are popular with locals and tourists alike.

Is Tromso or Mexico City Better for its Old Town?

Tromso
Mexico City

Mexico City is a city with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Tromso 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.

Tromso does not have a historic old town.


Is Tromso or Mexico City Better for Hiking?

Tromso
Mexico City

Tromso 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 Tromso. The surrounding countryside is filled with fjords, mountains, and pristine wilderness. There are hikes that cater to every level, and a trip to Tromso is not complete without heading into the rural areas.

Mexico City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tromso or Mexico City?

Tromso
Mexico City

Mexico City is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. However, Tromso is not known 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.

Tromso is a good destination for shopping. There are shops sprinkled along the main street, as well as a shopping center or two around town.

Is Tromso or Mexico City More Beautiful?

Tromso
Mexico City

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

Tromso is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's surrounding Arctic landscape includes fjords and snow-topped mountains.

Mexico City is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Tromso or Mexico City Better for Families?

Tromso
Mexico City

Both Tromso and Mexico City are excellent to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Tromso. Whether you visit during the summer or winter season, there are a number of indoor or outdoor activities around town. Many visitors come during the winter months to see the Northern Lights. There's also the Ice Hotel, Husky Sledding, and fjords cruises. Indoors, you'll find the Science Center, the Arctic University Museum, and the Troll Museum.

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 Tromso or Mexico City Better for Couples?

Tromso
Mexico City

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

Tromso makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For many couples, seeing the Northern Lights is an iconic romantic experience. The area also has an amazing outdoor setting with fjords and hiking. Indoors, there are art museums and more.

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 Tromso or Mexico City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tromso
Mexico City

Mexico City is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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 Tromso. There are hostels as well as camping in the area that make this otherwise expensive area somewhat more affordable.


Is Tromso or Mexico City Better for Students?

Tromso
Mexico City

Mexico City is a great city for its student-friendly activities. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for 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.

Tromso is a good town to visit for students. Although it's a very small city, there are a large number of students and some big city amenities. There are plenty of entertainment options both in town and in the surrounding countryside.

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

Tromso
Mexico City

Mexico City is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Tromso has a few public transit options. There's an efficient and reliable bus system in town.

Is Tromso or Mexico City a more walkable city?

Tromso
Mexico City

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

Tromso is a very walkable destination. The city is generally walkable but if you want to get into the countryside you'll need to travel by car or bus.

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 Tromso Worth Visiting? and Is Mexico City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mexico City or Tromso?

How long in Tromso or Mexico City?

In either Tromso or Mexico City, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Tromso than Mexico City because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Tromso, and 3-5 days is enough time in Mexico City.

Families should spend more time in Mexico City than Tromso. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mexico City than Tromso 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 Tromso or Mexico City? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tromso 4-7 
    Mexico City 3-5

One day in Tromso or Mexico City?

Tromso is a small town with plenty to do. 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.

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.

A weekend in Tromso or Mexico City?

Tromso might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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.

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.

Five days in Tromso or Mexico City?

Even though Tromso is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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.

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.


A week in Tromso or Mexico City?

Tromso is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and nightlife. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Norway, The Best Adventure Tours to Norway, The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico.


Which place is cheaper, Mexico City or Tromso?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Tromso is $83, while the average daily cost in Mexico City is $212. 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 Tromso and Mexico City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tromso $32
    Mexico City $38
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tromso $64
    Mexico City $76
Compare Hotels in Tromso and Mexico City

Looking for a hotel in Tromso 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.

Hotels in Tromso


Hotels in Mexico City


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: Tromso Hotel Prices and Mexico City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tromso $11
    Mexico City $12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tromso

Also for Tromso, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Tromso Cable Car Arctic Panorama Transfer: $123
  • Tromsø Private Airport-Hotel Transfer Service up to 13 guests: $45
  • Private Transfer Tromso Airport and City Vice Versa: $93

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:

  • Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary Visit with Transfer: $599
  • Teotihuacan: Private Balloon Flight with optional Transfer: $293
  • Shared Balloon Flight in Teotihuacan with transfer: $274
  • Transfer from Mexico City Airport to Puebla: $245
  • Private Balloon Flight Over Teotihuacan with Optional Transfer: $243
  • CDMX: Fly over Teotihuacan in a hot air balloon, with transfers and breakfast included.: $219
  • Private Transfer from Mexico City to Pachuca: $191
  • Private Transfer from Pachuca to Mexico City: $191
  • San Miguel De Allende City Tour with Transfer from Mexico City: $156
  • Private Transfers To San Miguel de Allende: $125
  • Six Flags Ticket + Hassle-Free Transfers: $116
  • Private Transfer From Juarez Airport: $111

Is it cheaper to fly into Tromso or Mexico City?

Prices for flights to both Mexico City and Tromso 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
    Tromso $43
    Mexico City $43

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tromso

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

  • 3 Hours Private Walking Food Tour in Norway: $185
  • Reindeer Camp Dinner with Chance of Northern Lights in Tromso: $201
  • Night Reindeer Sledding with Camp Dinner and Chance of Northern Lights: $205

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
  • Coyoacán Market Food Tour Urban Eats & Local Legends: $52
  • San Juan Market Food Tour Exotic Bites & Flavors: $52
  • 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
  • Lunch Food Tour: Taste Mexico like a local: $62
  • Old Town Food Tour of 7 Tastings & Secret Dish: $66
  • Breakfast Food Tour: Taste Mexico like a local: $68
  • Frida Kahlo Museum & Coyoacan Tacos & Food Tour: $69

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tromso $6.59
    Mexico City $14

Tours and Activities in Tromso

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Tromso.

  • 1 Hour Photo & History Cruise: $92
  • Arctic fjord and Landscape Tour: $139
  • 4 Hour Aurora Tour Photos Snacks and Warm Drinks Included: $98
  • 7 hours Tromsø Aurora Tour: Photos, snacks & warm drinks included: $98
  • Adventure Snowmobile Safari: $257
  • All-Inclusive Arctic Fjords and Sommarøy Scenic Tour: $212
  • Arctic Fjordcruise & Safari in Tromso with Luxury Catamaran : $150
  • Arctic Nature Tour from Tromsø by minibus: $139
  • Arctic Wildlife and Fjord Sightseeing: $232
  • Aurora Adventure Tour with Creative Vacations: $268
  • Aurora Cuisine Cruise: $195
  • Aurora Magic Northern Lights Tour with Pro Photographer: $176

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
  • Private Tour Teotihuacan Essentials: $140
  • Private Tour from your Hotel to the Pyramids of Teotihuacan: $168
  • San Andres Mixquic Car Tour Experience: $145
  • Sunrise HotAir Balloon Adventure Over Teotihuacan's Pyramids: $160
  • "Guided Tour Plus" EN Ruins "TEMPLE MAJOR" with OFFICIAL GUIDES: $33
  • 1 Day Hot Air Balloon Tour to the Pyramids in Teotihuacan: $280
  • 100% Private Tour in Teotihuacán Pyramids from Mexico City: $95
  • 100% private tour in Chapultepec Castle & around (with transport): $72
  • 100% private tour in Guadalupe's Basilica with transport: $80

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tromso $5.47
    Mexico City $19

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
  • Zona Rosa Pub Crawl Experience: $94
  • 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 Tromso and Mexico City, we can see that Mexico City is more expensive. And not only is Tromso much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Tromso 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 Tromso would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tromso 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 Tromso.

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


Which is Bigger, Tromso or Mexico City?

Mexico City has a larger population, and is about 220 times larger than the population of Tromso. When comparing the sizes of Tromso 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.