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

Should you visit Antalya or Mexico City?

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

Should I visit Antalya 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.

Antalya

Antalya is a high energy, relaxing, and luxurious vacation spot. With stunning beauty, Antalya attracts visitors from all around. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Antalya travel costs.

Mexico City

Mexico City is a diverse, vibrant, and dynamic 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 food, shopping, and museums. See Mexico City travel costs.

Antalya and Mexico City: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Antalya or Mexico City?

Both Mexico City and Antalya have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Antalya is very popular for its music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Mexico City attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and big city activities. Antalya is more touristy than Mexico City and is known for its turquoise waters, hotel lined beaches, and nearby archeological sights. Mexico City is famous for its vibrant street food scene, colorful markets, and historic architecture.

How is Antalya different from Mexico City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Antalya
Mexico City

Mexico City is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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.

Many visitors head to Antalya specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city combines history with a relaxing resort vacation. Sights in the area include the Antalya Museum and the Yivli Minare.


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

Antalya
Mexico City

Mexico City is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Mexico City is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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, Antalya makes for a great culinary experience. Food is excellent throughout Turkey and this city is no exception. The local cuisine offers a combination of fresh caught seafood as well as various grilled meats. Local specialties include meatball skewers, kulakli soup, and even lentil ice cream. The traditional Turkish breakfast is also popular, which usually includes hard boiled eggs, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and Turkish breads or pastries. It's almost always served with Turkish tea.

Is Antalya or Mexico City Better for Nightlife?

Antalya
Mexico City

Mexico City is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Mexico City has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Antalya is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has an insane nightlife scene with huge glamorous dance clubs that fill to the brink as well as low key bars and pubs that everyone can enjoy.

Is Antalya or Mexico City Better for Music?

Antalya
Mexico City

Antalya is a popular place for its music scene. However, Mexico City is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Antalya is active and vibrant. Live music ranges from rock concerts to symphonies as well as a number of local music venues.

Mexico City is not a live music destination.


Is Antalya or Mexico City Better for Resorts?

Antalya
Mexico City

Antalya is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Mexico City is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Antalya is a great choice. The city is famous for its resorts that range from luxury to family-friendly. Some of the most popular resorts in the area include Xanadu Resort Hotel, Susesi, and Lara Barut, but there are many more.

Mexico City is not a resort destination.

Is Antalya or Mexico City Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Antalya
Mexico City

Antalya is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Mexico City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Antalya has a few good snorkeling spots. Outside of town, in the region of Antalya, you'll find some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Turkey.

Mexico City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Antalya or Mexico City Better for Beaches?

Antalya
Mexico City

Antalya 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 Antalya. Beaches in Antalya are among the best in Turkey. They are sandy with warm water and a number of resorts nearby.

Mexico City is not a beach destination.


Is Antalya or Mexico City Better for its Old Town?

Antalya
Mexico City

Antalya is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. Also, Mexico City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Antalya. The city has a beautiful old town area, Kaleiçi, that is known for its narrow streets and historic buildings. The area has many sights including Hadrian's Gate.

Many visitors go to Mexico City to see the historical 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.

Is Antalya or Mexico City Better for Hiking?

Antalya
Mexico City

Antalya 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 Antalya. Outside of town you'll find coastal hikes with scenic views as well as trails that wander through historic ruins.

Mexico City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Antalya or Mexico City?

Antalya
Mexico City

Shoppers can find a variety of first-rate stores in both Antalya and Mexico City.

Many people travel to Antalya specifically to go shopping. Antalya combines modern high end malls with more traditional bazaars. From luxury fashion brands to souvenirs and local trinkets, the area has everything.

Mexico City is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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 Antalya or Mexico City More Beautiful?

Antalya
Mexico City

Antalya is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Mexico City is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Antalya attracts visitors from all around. It is a beautiful city with historic buildings and stunning beaches.

Mexico City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Antalya or Mexico City Better for Families?

Antalya
Mexico City

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

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Antalya. The city has beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and resorts that cater specifically to families. It's a popular family-friendly destination in Turkey.

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 Antalya or Mexico City Better for Couples?

Antalya
Mexico City

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

Antalya makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Antalya is a top-rated honeymoon destination in Turkey. It's beautiful beaches, romantic resorts, and great shopping put it at the top of many couples' list.

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 Antalya or Mexico City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antalya
Mexico City

Antalya and Mexico City are both high quality destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Antalya. Despite the many resorts in town, there are also budget accommodation options available including hostels. Backpackers appreciate Antalya's impressive old town as well as the area's stunning beaches.

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 Antalya or Mexico City Better for Students?

Antalya
Mexico City

Mexico City is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Antalya is not popular with students.

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

Antalya is not popular with students.

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

Antalya
Mexico City

Visitors will find high quality public transit in both Antalya and Mexico City.

Antalya offers a very effecient public transportation network. Buses and minibuses will help you get around town.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Mexico City. The city has a complex and comprehensive public transit system that includes a metro, metrobus, and local buses.


Is Antalya or Mexico City a more walkable city?

Antalya
Mexico City

Antalya is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Mexico City is lacking in options for its walkability.

Antalya is a somewhat walkable vacation spot. The historic area in particular is compact, filled with historic sights, and easy to explore on foot.

Mexico City is generally not very walkable. While you can walk within many neighborhoods, such as the historic city center, it's impossible to walk between neighborhoods and in many parts of the city.

For even more information, also check out Is Antalya Worth Visiting? and Is Mexico City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mexico City or Antalya?

How long in Antalya or Mexico City?

In either Antalya or Mexico City, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Antalya has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Antalya than Mexico City. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Antalya, and 3-5 days is enough time in Mexico City.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Antalya 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 Antalya.


  • How many days in Antalya or Mexico City? Ideal Length of Stay
    Antalya 2-5 
    Mexico City 3-5

One day in Antalya or Mexico City?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the vibrant vacation spot of Antalya. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

Because Mexico City is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Antalya or Mexico City?

Visitors enjoy the live music and food when visiting the vibrant destination of Antalya. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This vacation spot offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Because Mexico City is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.


Five days in Antalya or Mexico City?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the cultural vacation spot of Antalya. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mexico City has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Antalya or Mexico City?

Many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting Antalya. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mexico City. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Mexico City. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Turkey, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Turkey, The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico.


Which place is cheaper, Mexico City or Antalya?

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

  • Antalya Prices
    Turkey Prices
    Mexico City Prices
    Mexico Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Antalya $156
    Mexico City $197

The average daily cost (per person) in Antalya is $156, while the average daily cost in Mexico City is $197. 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 Antalya and Mexico City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Antalya $52
    Mexico City $35
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Antalya $104
    Mexico City $70
Compare Hotels in Antalya and Mexico City

Looking for a hotel in Antalya 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 Antalya


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: Antalya Hotel Prices and Mexico City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Antalya $104
    Mexico City $11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Antalya

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

  • olympos cable car with transfer from antalya: $88
  • fire of anatolia show ticket and transfer: $77
  • antalya to cappadocia/cappadocia to antalya private transfer: $485
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Antalya HTL-APT (AYT): $35
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Antalya APT-HTL (AYT): $35
  • Transfer from Antalya Airport to city of Side: $75
  • Transfer from Antalya Airport to Tekirova: $86
  • Transfer from Antalya Airport to Kiris/Camyuva: $82
  • Transfer from Antalya Airport to Kemer: $75
  • The Land of Legends Theme Park with Transfer from Antalya: $18
  • The Land of Legends Night Show Transfer From Antalya: $17
  • Tazi Canyon & Rafting tour with Lunch & Transfer from Antalya: $54

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Mexico City

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Mexico City:


  • Metro
    $1.01
  • Uber Ride
    $3.52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Mexico City

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

  • Transfer to and from Mexico City Airport: $9.99
  • Transfer from Mexico City Airport to Puebla: $245
  • Transfer Mexico City - Taxco - Acapulco (2 days): $83
  • Transfer & assistance one-way from/to Mexico City Airport/hotel : $36
  • Toluca to Toluca Int Airport (TLC) - Departure Private Transfer: $65
  • Toluca Int Airport (TLC) to Toluca - Arrival Private Transfer: $65
  • Toluca Airport TLC to Toluca Hotels Round Trip Private Transfer: $131
  • Toluca Airport TLC to Toluca Hotels Arrival Private Transfer: $65
  • TRANSFER to the balloon flight in Teotihuacan. From 1-6 people: $204
  • Six Flags Tickets and Transfer: $124
  • Roundtrip Private Airport Transfer Ciudad de México (MEX) to City: $34
  • Private pick up Mexico City Airport Transfer to Hotels in Mexico City: $140

Is it cheaper to fly into Antalya or Mexico City?

Prices for flights to both Mexico City and Antalya 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
    Antalya $42
    Mexico City $40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Antalya

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

  • Pamukkalea and Salda Lake Tour with Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner: $40
  • Full day trip to Pamukkale from Side with dinner: $66
  • Suluada Island Cruise with Dinner and Sunset: $70
  • Giza Pyramids Sound and Light Show with Dinner: $74

Typical Food Prices in Mexico City

For Mexico City, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch for Two
    $11
  • Coffee and Snacks
    $3.92
  • Dinner for 2
    $23

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:

  • Mexico City Street Food Tour (Private) - Best Rated: $29
  • Art and Food Tour with Lunch: $49
  • Local Markets & Food Tour in Mexico City: $50
  • Virtual Mexican Cooking Class (private and personalized): $50
  • Mexico City Vegan & Veggie Market Explorer plus Cooking Lesson: $55
  • 3 Hours Food Tour Best Vegan Tacos in Mexico City: $56
  • Private Half-Day Traditional Markets Street Food Tour in Mexico City: $57
  • Historic Center Food Tour with a Local Guide: $64
  • Secret Food Tour: Mexico City Old Town: $64
  • Secret Food Tours Mexico City: $65
  • Private Market Tour and Authentic Mexican Cooking Class with Fer: $68
  • Coyoacan Food Tour with a Local Guide: $69

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Antalya $43
    Mexico City $13

Tours and Activities in Antalya

For Antalya, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Antalya City Tour: $67
  • Aphrodisias and Pamukkale with Balloon Ride from Antalya 2 Days Tour: $165
  • Full Day Green Canyon Boat Tour with Lunch Included: $61
  • Full Day Tour in Altınbeşik Cave and Ürünlü : $109
  • Full-Day Adventure 3 in 1 activity from Antalya to Köprülü Canyon National Park: $53
  • Side Sunset Cruise: Ancient History and Mesmerizing Sunsets: $121
  • Tour of waterfall (unıque): $72
  • "Tazi Canyon and Rafting: Thrilling Adventure: $50
  • 2 Days Cappadocia Tour From Antalya: $70
  • 2 Days Cappadocia Tour From Antalya /w Cave Hotel & Balloon Ride: $66
  • 2 Days Cappadocia Tour From Antalya With Cave Hotel Overnight: $70
  • 2 Days Cappadocia Tour from Antalya: $50

Tours and Activities in Mexico City

For Mexico City, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • City Tour/español-ingles: $68
  • Discover Mexico City’s (CDMX) Gay (LGBTQ) Hotspots Guided Tour: $102
  • Frida Kahlo Tour with Admission Tickets: $76
  • Mexico City Tour and Visit Chapultepec Castle. Private service: $100
  • Mixology, Food, Wine and Beer Experience in Xochimilco: $99
  • Monarch Butterfly Tour from Mexico City: $220
  • Private Tour Teotihuacan Essentials: $129
  • Private Tour from your Hotel to the Pyramids of Teotihuacan: $88
  • Private Walking Tour Historic Center of Mexico City: $117
  • Romantic tour in San Andrés Mixquic: $150
  • The best of Mixquic walking tour: $150
  • 1 Day Hot Air Balloon Tour to the Pyramids in Teotihuacan: $295

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Antalya $19
    Mexico City $17

Sample the Local Flavors in Mexico City

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Mexico City:

  • Mexico City Pub Crawl: $22
  • CDMX Pub Crawl: Mexico City Bar Crawl: $23
  • Mexico City Bar Crawl: $40
  • NORTH ROME NORTH CDMX BEER TOUR (Get to know 4 brewery places): $47
  • Polanco: Private Wine Tasting in with Cheese: $79
  • Zona Rosa Pub Crawl Experience: $85
  • Teotihuacan´s Best Balloon Flight: Pyramids and Brewery tours : $120
  • Historic Center from Above © Rooftop Bar Crawl: $129
  • Polanco: Premium Foodie Tour with Wine Tasting: $147
  • Teotihuacan Full Day: Balloon flight+Pyramids Tour and Craft Brewery: $232
  • Third Largest Monolith in the World:Bernal with wine tasting: $235
  • Cavas Freixenet Wine Tour from Mexico City: $255


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

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


Which is Bigger, Antalya or Mexico City?

Mexico City has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Antalya. When comparing the sizes of Antalya 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.