Mexico is a large and diverse destination famed for Xcaret Park in Cancun, Palacio de Bellas Artes in Mexico City, and Palancar Reef in Cozumel, and this travel cost guide will help you plan the perfect trip without overspending. This Mexico trip budget calculator shows you average costs from thousands of past travelers, including info on where to stay, what to eat, and what to see, so that your trip is both affordable and unforgettable. Whether you're eating the delicious cuisine in Oaxaca de Juarez, taking in the beauty of Cabo San Lucas, or scuba diving around Tulum, we'll help you plan the ideal trip that stays within your budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Mexico?
A typical traveler spends $145 (MX$2,509) per day on a trip to Mexico. This is the average daily price for a vacation in Mexico based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $48 (MX$832) on meals
- $20 (MX$345) on local transportation
- $99 (MX$1,710) on hotels
A one-week trip to Mexico for two people costs, on average, $2,024 (MX$35,126). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from thousands of other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
Independent Travel
Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.
All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.
Is Mexico expensive to visit?
Mexico is a moderately priced destination to visit. It's about average with most other countries for travel costs. The prices for food, accommodation, and transportation are all fairly reasonable.
Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Mexico is very affordable compared to the other countries. It is in the top 10% of countries in North America for its affordability. Very few countries in the region are as affordable as Mexico.
In Mexico, budget travelers spend $52 (MX$897) per person per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $145 (MX$2,509) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $445 (MX$7,721) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Mexico.
Whether you're looking for luxury or traveling on a budget, Mexico has an array of accommodation and activities to suit your needs. For those on a budget, hostels in Mexico City, San Cristobal de Las Casas, and Playa del Carmen are available, but there are also luxury hotels for affluent visitors, and plenty of mid-range hotels for families and couples.
If you're worried about costs in Mexico, there are ways to cut back, like eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying free activities.
For more details, see Is Mexico Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Mexico?
The average Mexico trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Mexico travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Mexico cost?
Mexico on a Budget
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Category
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Budget
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Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$18
(MX$315)
|
$49
(MX$855)
|
$144
(MX$2,499)
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$7.20
(MX$125)
|
$20
(MX$345)
|
$60
(MX$1,033)
|
|
Food2
|
$18
(MX$312)
|
$48
(MX$832)
|
$135
(MX$2,349)
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$8.65
(MX$150)
|
$25
(MX$432)
|
$80
(MX$1,389)
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$3-10
(MX$56-167)
|
$9-26
(MX$150-451)
|
$25-75
(MX$434-1,303)
|
Veracruz, Mexico
Accommodation Budget in Mexico
The range of hotel prices in Mexico can be quite surprising, especially when you compare budget-friendly and luxury hotels. Peak season brings much higher prices, so consider traveling in the off-season for a more affordable experience. Booking in advance can also help with savings.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Mexico for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $99 (MX$1,710). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $49 (MX$855) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Mexico? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
Mexico City
As one of the less touristy places, Mexico City offers a variety of hotel options at a range of prices. You'll find typical hotel prices from $32 in the low season to $243 during the busy peak season. With many travelers lingering for up to five days, you should prioritize finding a comfortable stay in a favorable location if you plan to explore the area. If you're looking for some good options, you should check out Hotel Historico Central for $114 and Hacienda Pena Pobre starting at $89. If you stay in a hostel, you can expect to pay around $17 for a dorm bed.
Guadalajara
In Guadalajara, which is a medium city, expect a fairly wide range of choices and prices for accommodation. Hotel prices here can range from $27 in the low season to $149 during the peak season. Grand Fiesta Americana Guadalajara Country Club ($125) is one of the best hotel options here, and La Villa del Ensueno Boutique Hotel is also good, and starts at $74. You can expect to pay around $14 for a dorm bed if you decide to stay in a hostel.
Merida
Merida is a medium city that is one of the more popular destinations in Mexico. During the peak winter months hotels can fill up early, so plan to book well in advance. In Merida, the average hotel price is $59 in the low season and $110 in the busy season. On average, four star hotels will cost $125 to $233. If you stay in a hostel, you can expect to pay around $15 for a dorm bed. For hotels, a few of the best options here include Sercotel Casa de Las Palomas for $119 and Hotel Merida Santiago starting at $217.
Local Transportation Budget in Mexico
Calculated from travelers like you
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On average, past travelers have spent $20 (MX$345) per person, per day, on local transportation in Mexico. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Mexico is significantly more than public transportation.
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Local Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$20
MX$345
In Mexico, public transit options are somewhat limited in many cities, especially if you're not heading to Mexico City. It's advisable to rent a car or arrange for a form of transportation in advance, such as a guided tour. However, keep in mind that this might affect your overall trip budget.
Driving in major cities such as Mexico City is often not the best option because of the crowds and busy streets. With high parking costs and difficult traffic, it can be a hassle. By relying on public transit or walking instead of renting a car, you can save money and have a smoother experience.
If you're driving in a larger city, it's a good idea to ask your hotel about parking options ahead of time. You might need to pay for parking either at the hotel or in a nearby public garage. It could save you money to find a parking spot further away from the city center.
Typical prices for transit in Mexico are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the overall transportation costs in Mexico. Keep in mind that your individual costs will vary based on your method of transit, as hired cars such as taxis are generally much more expensive than public transportation.
Food Budget in Mexico
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Mexico can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Mexico is $48 (MX$832) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
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Food2
Meals for one day
$48
MX$832
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Mexico is around $48 (MX$832) per person, with previous travelers spending from $18 to $135. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Mexico are as follows:
- Breakfast: $9 to $14
- Lunch: $7 to $24
- Dinner: $17 to $38
- Coffee: $4
- Fast Food or Street Food: $8
Mexican food has a lot of regional specialties which you will become familiar with as you travel through the area. In the north most dishes are meat based, and many of the options are influenced by American cuisine. In the central areas most dishes are corn based while in the southeast they are spicier and made with chicken and vegetables. Along the coast you will find a lot of seafood options. For yet even more information about the cuisine, make sure you read this authentic Mexican food guide which covers everything, or read on for a few highlights.
Tamales: Tamales are a corn and meat based dish that is either steamed or boiled in a leaf wrapper and served with sauce. It's popular in most Mexican restaurants and makes a good lunch or dinner option.
Quesadillas: Quesadillas are a flour or corn tortilla that is typically filled with cheese and a meat or vegetables. They're common throughout Mexican and are also available in most restaurants abroad as well. They're a simple dish to prepare but can be quite good.
Tacos: Perhaps the most popular food option, tacos are made with a corn or wheat shell that is filled with meat or beans and served with cheese and vegetables. You can typically pick up several at food stands anywhere in the country for a very low cost. They're a great option for a filling but cheap lunch.
Mexico is an extremely popular culinary destination, and the cuisine is enjoyed around the world. Many visitors come just for the food. Some of the best foodie cities include Oaxaca de Juarez, Mexico City, and Tulum.
Oaxaca de Juarez
If you're a traveling foodie, you'll enjoy your time in Oaxaca de Juarez. This is a city for foodies. Of all the destinations in Mexico, this one always tops the list for its cuisine. The food is influenced by traditional ingredients like corn and many of the recipes have been passed on through the generations. Local dishes include mole, Oaxaca cheese, coloradito, and tlayudas.
Mexico City
Mexico City is one of the best culinary destinations in Mexico. 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.
Tulum
One of the best culinary spots in Mexico is Tulum. Despite being well established as a top tourist destination in Mexico, you'll still find authentic and delicious local cuisine. Favorite dishes around town include the ceviche, tacos al pastor, and sopa de lima (chicken soup).
Cabo San Lucas
Make sure you don't miss the cuisine in Cabo San Lucas. If you step away from the all-you-can-eat buffets in the resorts, and the tourist hot spots, you'll find some excellent local Mexican cuisine and nice fine dining restaurants. Fresh seafood and local produce make the dishes unique.
Merida
Merida is not to be missed because of it's amazing cuisine. It's a top foodie destination in the Yucatan region and visitors will enjoy the many local restaurants and diverse local dishes that are influenced by the Mayan, Spanish, and Caribbean cultures. The most well known local dish is cochinita pibil, which is marinated pork shoulder. Other popular dishes include sopa de lima (lime soup), papadzules (enchiladas with pumpkin seed sauce), and relleno negro (a local stew).
If you find yourself in larger cities like Mexico City, Merida, or Guadalajara, eating at nicer restaurants during lunch instead of dinner is a smart way to save money. A number of restaurants in tourist areas or business centers provide lunch specials that are smaller and cheaper than their dinner options. You might be surprised to find a full multi-course gourmet meal at a budget price if you explore. Then, just keep your dinner light.
If you're enjoying a stay in a sought-after resort area like Tulum, Playa del Carmen, or Cancun, resorts typically offer various food options, so it's important to familiarize yourself with the details to understand the pricing structure. Some resorts provide full board, which means all meals are included, whereas others might offer half board, covering only two meals. Additionally, on-site restaurants might exist that could be included in your stay or not. Also, drinks may sometimes be included, but that's not always the case. Be sure to check with the resort ahead of time to clarify which meals and drinks may incur extra charges.
Are you planning an extended stay of a week or more in Tulum, Playa del Carmen, or Cozumel? Families or groups might want to consider an apartment or vacation rental with a kitchen, so you can make meals with less expensive groceries instead of eating out.
If you're traveling with kids, be sure to seek out restaurants that offer a kids' menu. This can help you save quite a bit of money, as these meals are usually priced much lower. Some places may not display the kids' options, so it's a good idea to ask the waiter before placing your order.
A lot of hotels feature breakfast in their room rates, although some charge separately for it. Breakfast quality and prices can vary widely from one hotel to another. Understanding this beforehand can help you figure out if the hotel buffet is worth the splurge or if a local bakery or café would be a more economical choice.
Choose to take a water bottle with you instead of purchasing drinks all the time. It's also beneficial for the planet.
Before taking off on a tour, check which meals are part of the package. If you have to pay for some meals on your own, that could lead to higher costs.
Taking a food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culture in Mexico. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Sayulita Tacos and Tequila Food Tour for $99 details
- Private Mexican Cooking Class with Gastronomic Historian, Lucia for $135 details
- Coyoacan Food Tour for $110 details
- Authentic Beachfront Mexican Cooking Class Cafe Jaguar Costa Maya for $79 details
Listed below are typical food prices in Mexico, based on the actual spending of previous travelers. These figures provide an estimate of what you might expect to pay for meals. However, your personal expenses will depend on your dining preferences, the restaurants you choose, and what you decide to order.
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Dinner for 2
MX$455
-
Mexican Chips
MX$7.00
-
Ice Cream
MX$22
-
Lunch for Two
MX$350
-
Lunch for Two
MX$108
-
Coffee and Snacks
MX$78
-
Lunch for Two
MX$221
-
Lunch
MX$50
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Mexico
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Mexico typically cost an average of $25 (MX$432) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
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Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$25
MX$432
As a very popular travel destination, Mexico allows many visitors to tick off several items from their bucket lists. Notable places to explore in Mexico are Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and Cozumel.
Tulum
Tulum is a popular resort town on the Caribbean side of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula. While it was once a backpacker hangout, today is has many upscale resorts and is well established as a vacation destination. The beaches are beautiful with white sand and blue water. There are also world-famous Mayan ruins, unique cenotes, and impressive resorts.
Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen is a popular resort town that is filled with luxury resorts and stunning coastline. The area has world class diving and snorkeling as well as jungles and famous nightlife venues. Vacationers flock here to relax and enjoy the paradise-like setting.
Cozumel
Cozumel is a popular tourist destination that has a busy cruise ship port and a vibrant town. Many people visit for the world class snorkeling and scuba diving, but there's also shopping and cultural sights. You can also see dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles.
Cabo San Lucas
Cabo San Lucas is a popular resort destination on the Baja California peninsula. Visitors come for the beaches, stunning beauty, and wild party scene. There is a lot of outdoor beauty and many great restaurants.
Cancun
Cancun is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico. Visitors come for the beautiful beaches and wild party scene. Years ago the city created a name for itself as a spring break destination, but today you'll find families, honeymooners, and vacationers all enjoying the setting.
For those passionate about underwater exploration, the scuba diving options in Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and Cozumel are exceptional. Be sure to research the best seasons for each location, and budget accordingly for your trip as diving is usually fairly expensive.
Mexico offers a range of fantastic beach destinations. For a nice vacation, many travelers escape to the coastline for relaxation and outdoor activities. Some of the best beaches are in Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and Cozumel.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Mexico. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- VIP Cenotes Private Tour for $225 details
- Private Cenotes tour for $245 details
Below are a few common prices for sightseeing and activity entry fees in Mexico, all of which are based on the reports of previous travelers. These figures should give you a rough estimate of what you can expect to pay. Keep in mind, though, your costs will vary depending on the activities you choose and whether you take advantage of free or budget-friendly options.
Nightlife Budget in Mexico
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average person spends about $17 (MX$301) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Mexico per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
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Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$17
MX$301
Mexico is a highly sought-after spot for nightlife, drawing visitors from across the globe to enjoy its vibrant scene. Some of the top nightlife destinations are Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and Cabo San Lucas.
Tulum
If partying is a priority while you're traveling, then you'll want to visit Tulum. It's world renowned for its wild nightlife scene and you'll find iconic beach parties, jungle raves, and trendy Tuluminati parties. Most of the local places that are a bit more affordable are in town, and the more touristy and expensive places are around the Middle Beach Zone.
Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen is one of the best nightlife destinations in Mexico. It rivals some of the country's best nightlife and you'll find plenty of venues to choose from, ranging from dive bars to swanky cocktail lounges. Head to the main walking street for some of the most active venues.
Cabo San Lucas
Visitors love the nightlife in Cabo San Lucas. It has a long reputation of being one of Mexico's best party destinations. There are wild, all-night dance parties, crazy and crowded clubs, and music that lasts well into the morning. The best nightlife can be found in the blocks around Plaza Bonita, near the marina boardwalk.
Cancun
The nightlife in Cancun is quite popular. It's long been known as a party destination and there are large world famous clubs as well as smaller bars where you can hang out. The party never stops here, so be prepared for all night dancing and drinking, and it will definitely live up to its reputation.
Acapulco de Juarez
When the sun goes down, the party picks up in Acapulco de Juarez. The nightlife scene is part of what originally put this city on the map. Spring break is a prime time for partying and you'll find many bars along Costera Street, with the liveliest around Condesa Beach.
Nightlife is a blast when traveling, but scaling back on drinks can really help stretch your travel budget.
Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Mexico. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:
- Baja Tour Guide wine tour for $169 details
- VIP Private Tequila Tour: Artisanal Distillery and Magical Town for $177 details
- Cachasol Tequila Tasting & Raicilla Distillery Tour for $106 details
- Hierve el Agua and Distillery of Mezcal Tour for $60 details
Travel Costs Last Updated: Apr 20, 2026
Traveling in Mexico
Kukulkan Pyramid in Chichen Itza
Mexico is a convenient destination for Americans and Canadians looking to find warm weather and tropical beaches. For decades, this country has been popular as a spring break destination. College kids head to its beaches to cut loose and have fun. Popular cities like Cancun, Cozumel and Acapulco have long been the destination for American youth looking to have a good time, but while Mexico is known for its beach resorts, there really is so much more. If you take the time to head inland, you can explore its villages and cities. From the mountains, to the tropical beaches, to the jungle, there are plenty of undiscovered areas still to be found. Hit up a festival. Drive through the countryside. Stop by an undiscovered restaurant. Get off the tourist trail and you'll see this country has so much more to offer.
Mexican food has spread throughout North America. Everyone craves tacos, burritos, and enchiladas, but nothing can top the experience of eating the food in the country where it originated. Food stands abound in most cities and towns. The food is typically quite fresh and delicious and when you're on the coast, seafood is the most common food of choice.
Mexico can be an expensive destination, particularly if you stick to the resorts and package tourism areas. If you venture a little farther off the beaten path then you'll likely save yourself a little money while you have a more adventurous experience. Stay at locally owned hotels and skip the large resort options and your money will go a lot farther and stay within the local economy. Likewise, restaurants that are targeted specifically at tourists are often far more expensive than local options. Stick to where the locals eat you you'll save yourself a good amount of money. Also try picking up some food in the markets. The food is often fresh and far cheaper than the options that are available in sit down restaurants.
Also remember to negotiate prices. This is particularly true with taxis. Drivers often refuse to use their meters, so you'll do better to agree on a set price before you even get in the vehicle.
At A Glance
- If you're going to spend any time on the Caribbean coast you are better off avoiding the hurricane season, which is during the fall months. If a hurricane hits the area during your scheduled trip you'll almost guaranteed to have to cancel. If you do decide to travel during this time make sure you have good travel insurance.
- Many of the best roads in Mexico are toll roads. These roads are usually in good condition and allow for the shortest travel time. You can expect to pay anywhere from 400 to 800 pesos to travel on a toll road with a private vehicle. If you're taking a bus, only the more expensive buses use the toll roads, as this fee is included in the price of your ticket.
- If you're traveling between cities by bus, you want to take the express bus. These buses are called directo throughout the country and they are much faster and more efficient than the local options, which stop in all of the small towns along the way.
- If you have money that you want to exchange for Mexican pesos it is best not to do this in your hotel. The rates in hotels are usually outrageously high. There are often places around town where you can exchange money. If you have a banking card, ATMs almost always give the best rate, but this does vary by bank.
- There are any number of activities to do in Mexico. On the coast you can enjoy surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling and kayaking. It can be cheaper to wait until you arrive in the country as the prices will be a lot less, but you run the risk of some activities being sold out. Many hotels can organize activities and tours, but ask around because the rate is usually better outside of your hotel, particularly if you're staying at a resort.
Related
Looking for a
party hostel in Mexico? Heading to
San Diego or
LA?
Top Tourist Attractions
Dias des los Muertos: Head to this festival in Oaxaca for one of the best examples of the Day of the Dead Festival in Mexico. It is celebrated at the end of October and is a time when Mexican families remember those who have died. Gifts are often left on graves and prayers are said for those who are deceased.
Palenque: This archaeological site in Chiapas, although smaller than some other sites throughout the country, is a wonderful example of Mayan architecture. It dates back to 100BC and is and impressive sight to see.
Copper Canyon: This is a network of canyons that, when combined, are larger than the Grand Canyon. They are located in the southwest portion of the state of Chihuahua and offer stunning views and breathtaking scenery.
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's essential to have a grounded and realistic perspective on your budget. While many believe they can travel as "budget" travelers on a mere $52 a day like a backpacker, the reality is that most people struggle to enjoy that style of travel. Consider what makes you happy and how you've traveled before. Do you prefer the comfort of resorts, the convenience of vacation rentals, or the simple camaraderie of hostels? Is dining out a top priority for you? Do you plan to visit the major attractions? Your answers to these questions will certainly impact your overall travel budget.
The Truth on Budget Travel
People often say you can visit Mexico for just $52 daily, but unless you're okay with sacrificing many comforts, be ready to shell out a lot more.
Backpackers can typically make that budget work, but it usually requires sleeping in dorm-style hostels, eating at the most affordable restaurants or fast food spots, taking public transit or walking, and sticking to free sights.
Thankfully, Mexico offers a wide variety of hostels, with the largest selection found in Mexico City, San Cristobal de Las Casas, and Playa del Carmen. While everyone appreciates the delicious food in Mexico, those on a budget often dine on street food or cook in their hostel. This could lead to missing out on some of the better culinary experiences.
So, are you average?
For families and couples traveling for fun, staying in a mid-range hotel, eating at popular restaurants, and visiting famous museums and attractions with entry fees is typical. Most visitors to Mexico will want to visit Xcaret Park in Cancun, Palacio de Bellas Artes in Mexico City, or Palancar Reef in Cozumel. As you can expect, most of these experiences come at a price, so it's safer to plan for a trip budget around $145 per person each day.
There are a wide range of hotels and vacation rentals in Mexico. If you're traveling with others, you'll share your hotel with a partner, friend, or your children, so costs will be split accordingly, saving money. In places like Playa del Carmen and Cancun, which are particularly family-friendly, you'll find hotels and restaurants that cater to kids. Also, in Merida, Sercotel Casa de Las Palomas is a good kid-friendly option, and in San Marcos, Quinta Estrella is also terrific. You'll find more hotels that cater to families and couples in our hotel guide for Mexico here.
Want to Escape the Daily Grind in Style?
For a lavish experience with the highest level of comfort and service, expect a price tag around $445. Booking five-star hotels, dining at top restaurants, splurging on once-in-a-lifetime excursions, and hiring private drivers will put you in the luxury travel tier. You'll be enjoying the good life in places like Isla Mujeres and Mexico City. Or you could plan an multi-day adventure by booking a higher end tour such as 8 Days Tailor-Made Best Mexico Family Tour, Daily Start - offered by Agate Travel.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
We stayed a bit outside of the touristy areas and found cheaper local hotels instead of the larger, more famous resorts.