A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Athens vs. Acapulco de Juarez for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Athens or Acapulco de Juarez?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Athens and Acapulco de Juarez. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Athens

Athens is a vibrant, energetic, and historic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Acapulco de Juarez

Acapulco de Juarez is a vibrant, built-up, and well-known city. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Athens and Acapulco de Juarez: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or Acapulco de Juarez?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Athens. Although Athens and Acapulco de Juarez are roughly the same size, Athens has more sights and attractions for tourists. Athens is very popular for its museums & sights, food, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Acapulco de Juarez attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Athens is famous for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. It is also well known for The Acropolis. Acapulco de Juarez is famous for its large hotels, golf courses, and lively bars and clubs.

The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Acapulco de Juarez?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Athens or Acapulco de Juarez?

Athens is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. However, Acapulco de Juarez is a city with minimal options for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Athens on the map. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.

While most people don't head to Acapulco de Juarez specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of history and cultural museums in the city that can be a nice way to spend a rainy day.

Is the Food Better in Athens or Acapulco de Juarez? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Athens is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Acapulco de Juarez is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Athens is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Acapulco de Juarez. The local cuisine is influenced by the area's indigenous cultures combined with Hispanic influences. Seafood is common as well.

Is Athens or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is amazing in both Athens and Acapulco de Juarez.

The nightlife in Athens is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

Acapulco de Juarez is a world class party destination. 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.

Is Athens or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Resorts?

Acapulco de Juarez is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Athens is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Acapulco de Juarez for its luxury resorts. You'll find no shortage of resorts in the city, most with large pools and beachfront views.

Athens is not a resort destination.

Is Athens or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Acapulco de Juarez is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Athens is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Acapulco de Juarez. There are plenty of dive shops that offer snorkeling and scuba diving trips to premier spots.

Athens is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Athens or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Beaches?

Acapulco de Juarez is great for the beach. However, Athens is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Acapulco de Juarez for it's beautiful beaches. The beaches are well developed with restaurants, hotels and bars lining the long stretches of sand. You'll find all kinds of water sports and activities nearby and several of the most popular beaches include Condesa Beach, Caleta Beach, and Icacos Beach.

Athens is not a beach destination.

Is Athens or Acapulco de Juarez Better for its Old Town?

Athens is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Acapulco de Juarez does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Athens offers plenty to see. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.

Acapulco de Juarez does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Acapulco de Juarez?

If you're looking to go shopping, Athens and Acapulco de Juarez both offer plenty of nice spots.

Athens has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Acapulco de Juarez is a great destination for shopping. You'll find tons of beachside shops where you can pick up any beach supplies you may need as well as souvenirs from your trip. The city also has retail outlets and shopping centers.

Is Athens or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Families?

Both Athens and Acapulco de Juarez are superb family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Athens. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

Acapulco de Juarez is a very family-friendly place to visit. It may have been made famous by spring breakers, but families with kids will find plenty to do as well. There are water parks, playgrounds, museums and, of course, the beach.

Is Athens or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Couples?

Acapulco de Juarez is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Acapulco de Juarez is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Whether you're looking for an active nightlife scene, or romantic sunset walks, then this city has it all. The beach is active and beautiful, there are also botanical gardens and wonderful restaurants to experience.

Athens is a nice destination for couples. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.

Is Athens or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Acapulco de Juarez is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Athens is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Acapulco de Juarez is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are more hotels and resorts than hostels, so most backpackers head elsewhere. There is a young crowd during the spring break season.

Is Athens or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Students?

Athens is a great destination for students. However, Acapulco de Juarez is not popular with students.

Athens is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

Acapulco de Juarez is not popular with students.

Is Athens or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Athens is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Acapulco de Juarez is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Athens can get you to most places easily. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

While Acapulco de Juarez offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's an elaborate and fun bus system that travels around the city.

Is Athens or Acapulco de Juarez a more walkable city?

Athens is a great destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Acapulco de Juarez is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Athens is a very walkable destination. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

Acapulco de Juarez is somewhat walkable. The downtown and beachfront areas are the most walkable and many sights are within a short distance of each other.

For even more information, also check out Is Athens Worth Visiting? and Is Acapulco de Juarez Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Acapulco de Juarez or Athens?

How long in Athens or Acapulco de Juarez?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Acapulco de Juarez than Athens. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Acapulco de Juarez that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Athens than Acapulco de Juarez 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 Athens.

One day in Athens or Acapulco de Juarez?

Athens is a ancient big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Acapulco de Juarez. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Athens or Acapulco de Juarez?

Athens is a popular place to visit. Athens is a historic city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Acapulco de Juarez is a great place to explore. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. 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 Athens or Acapulco de Juarez?

Athens is a big city destination where you can fill many days. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Athens has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Acapulco de Juarez. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Athens or Acapulco de Juarez?

Athens is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. Visiting the old town is also a must. It offers something for everyone. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the vibrant destination of Acapulco de Juarez. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Athens, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Athens, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Mexico City, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Playa del Carmen.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Athens and Acapulco de Juarez, we can see that Athens is more expensive. And not only is Acapulco de Juarez much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Athens is in Europe and Acapulco de Juarez 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 Acapulco de Juarez would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Acapulco de Juarez 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 Athens would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Athens than you might in Acapulco de Juarez.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Athens Expensive? and Is Acapulco de Juarez Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Athens or Acapulco de Juarez?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 12% larger than the population of Acapulco de Juarez. When comparing the sizes of Athens and Acapulco de Juarez, 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.

When is the best time to visit Athens or Acapulco de Juarez?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Athens or Acapulco de Juarez in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Athens as well as Acapulco de Juarez. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Acapulco de Juarez for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

Athens is around the same temperature as Acapulco de Juarez in the summer. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Acapulco de Juarez fluctuates around 29°C (83°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Acapulco de Juarez. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In the summer, Athens often gets more sunshine than Acapulco de Juarez. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Acapulco de Juarez receives 224 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Acapulco de Juarez. Athens usually gets less rain in July than Acapulco de Juarez. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Acapulco de Juarez receives 209 mm (8.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Acapulco de Juarez in the Autumn?

Both Acapulco de Juarez and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Athens for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Acapulco de Juarez in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Athens is cooler than Acapulco de Juarez. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Athens in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Acapulco de Juarez averages at about 28°C (83°F).

It's quite sunny in Acapulco de Juarez. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Athens. Athens usually receives less sunshine than Acapulco de Juarez during autumn. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Acapulco de Juarez receives 245 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Acapulco de Juarez. In October, Athens usually receives less rain than Acapulco de Juarez. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Acapulco de Juarez receives 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Athens or Acapulco de Juarez in the Winter?

Both Acapulco de Juarez and Athens during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Athens in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Acapulco de Juarez for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Athens is generally much colder than Acapulco de Juarez. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 10°C (51°F), and Acapulco de Juarez fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

In Acapulco de Juarez, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Athens often gets less sunshine than Acapulco de Juarez. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Acapulco de Juarez receives 272 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets more rain in January than Acapulco de Juarez. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Acapulco de Juarez receives 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Acapulco de Juarez in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Acapulco de Juarez. Most visitors come to Athens for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Acapulco de Juarez because of the beaches.

Athens is much colder than Acapulco de Juarez in the spring. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Acapulco de Juarez fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Acapulco de Juarez this time of the year. In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. Athens usually receives less sunshine than Acapulco de Juarez during spring. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Acapulco de Juarez receives 274 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Athens usually receives more rain than Acapulco de Juarez. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Acapulco de Juarez receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Acapulco de Juarez and Athens