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

Should you visit Bordeaux or Mexico City?

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

Should I visit Bordeaux 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.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a charming, romantic, and historical city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Mexico City

Mexico City is a diverse, vibrant, and dynamic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bordeaux and Mexico City: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • 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 Bordeaux or Mexico City?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Mexico City than Bordeaux, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Mexico City is more popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Bordeaux is known for its impressive beauty. Bordeaux is more touristy than Mexico City and is popular for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. Mexico City is popular for its vibrant street food scene, colorful markets, and historic architecture. It is also home to Zócalo.

How is Bordeaux different from Mexico City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bordeaux
Mexico City

Mexico City is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Mexico City are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bordeaux. The city has many historical landmarks and museums to explore. Cathédrale Saint-André, Tour Le Grand-Théâtre, and Basilique Saint-Seurin are all notable monuments that are worth visiting.


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

Bordeaux
Mexico City

Foodies will find both Bordeaux and Mexico City both to be first-rate destinations.

For foodies, Bordeaux is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Both food and wine are a major draw to this culinary city, which is known for its pastries and rich flavors. Popular local dishes include grilled duck, duck foie gras, and canelés.

Mexico City has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city food scene is as diverse as the population itself. There are countless ways to experience the amazing street food, but there are also world class chefs working in award winning restaurants. Make sure you try the chilaquiles, tacos al pastor, and chiles en nogada.

Is Bordeaux or Mexico City Better for Nightlife?

Bordeaux
Mexico City

Mexico City is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

People head to Mexico City just to party. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Bordeaux has a few options to choose from. The city comes to life at night with dance clubs, wine bars, student pubs, and more.

Is Bordeaux or Mexico City Better for its Old Town?

Bordeaux
Mexico City

It's fun to wander around the good old towns in both Bordeaux and Mexico City.

Many people head to Bordeaux to see the old town. The old town is between Cours de l'Intendance and rue Peyronnet. The area has many distinct neighborhoods, monuments, and historical buildings.

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.


Is the Shopping Better in Bordeaux or Mexico City?

Bordeaux
Mexico City

Mexico City is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Mexico City make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bordeaux. The city has a mix of luxury fashion brands, jewelry shops, perfume suppliers, and leather goods. There are department stores, local boutiques, and pedestrian shopping areas that you can explore.

Is Bordeaux or Mexico City Better for Families?

Bordeaux
Mexico City

Mexico City is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Mexico City is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Bordeaux offers lots of family activities. The city has a number of parks and playgrounds as well as museums, including a kid's science museum. Kids also enjoy splashing around in the Miroir d’eau, which is the world's largest water mirror.

Is Bordeaux or Mexico City Better for Couples?

Bordeaux
Mexico City

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

Bordeaux makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Wine lovers will enjoy an amazing weekend in this beautiful city. Some of the most romantic activities include wine walks, river cruises, and exploring scenic gardens.

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 Bordeaux or Mexico City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bordeaux
Mexico City

Mexico City is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Mexico City is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Bordeaux is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Is Bordeaux or Mexico City Better for Students?

Bordeaux
Mexico City

Bordeaux and Mexico City are high quality places to visit for students.

Bordeaux is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city has a great student atmosphere and a unique culture with a diversity of activities. It's grown in popularity with students, and the prices have climbed a bit over the past few years.

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

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

Bordeaux
Mexico City

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Bordeaux and Mexico City.

Public transit in Bordeaux can get you to some places easily. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.

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.


Is Bordeaux or Mexico City a more walkable city?

Bordeaux
Mexico City

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

Bordeaux is a very walkable destination. The city has many pedestrian areas and large squares to explore.

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

Should I spend more time in Mexico City or Bordeaux?

How long in Bordeaux or Mexico City?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mexico City than Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux or Mexico City? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bordeaux 2-5 
    Mexico City 3-5

One day in Bordeaux or Mexico City?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the elegant city of Bordeaux. Most people visit for the food. 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 big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Bordeaux or Mexico City?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the elegant destination of Bordeaux. This city 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.

Mexico City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Bordeaux or Mexico City?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the elegant city of Bordeaux. 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 popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Mexico City, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Bordeaux or Mexico City?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bordeaux. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the food. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Mexico City is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico.


Which place is cheaper, Mexico City or Bordeaux?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Bordeaux is €118, while the average daily cost in Mexico City is €195. 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 Bordeaux and Mexico City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bordeaux 63
    Mexico City 38
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bordeaux 126
    Mexico City 76
Compare Hotels in Bordeaux and Mexico City

Looking for a hotel in Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux


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: Bordeaux Hotel Prices and Mexico City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bordeaux 15
    Mexico City 12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bordeaux

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bordeaux:

  • Transfer Airport, Hotel, Station and others places: $97
  • Private Transfer from Bordeaux Airport to City of Bordeaux: $87
  • Private Transfer from Airport to Bordeaux City: $165
  • Private Transfer Bordeaux City to Bordeaux Airport BOD by Car: $97
  • Private Round Trip Transfer to Bordeaux from Bordeaux Airport: $165
  • Departure Private Transfers : Bordeaux to Bordeaux Airport BOD in Luxury Van: $108
  • Bordeaux to Airport Private Transfer in Premium Class: $147
  • Bordeaux Airport Transfers: Bordeaux to Bordeaux Airport BOD in Luxury Van: $108
  • Bordeaux Airport Transfers: Bordeaux to Bordeaux Airport BOD in Luxury Car: $137
  • Bordeaux Airport Transfers: Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux in Luxury Car: $137
  • Bordeaux Airport Transfers: Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux in Business Car: $103
  • Arrival Private Transfers : Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux in Business Car: $103

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
    3.83

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Mexico City

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

  • Aguascalientes Airport (AGU) Aguascalientes - RoundTrip Transfer: $48
  • Aguascalientes to Silao Del Bajio Airport BJX: Departure Transfer: $38
  • Airport Transfer: Mexico Airport MEX to Mexico by Business Car: $86
  • Airport Transfer: Mexico Airport MEX to Mexico by Luxury SUV: $91
  • Airport Transfer: Mexico Airport MEX to Mexico by Luxury SUV/Van: $91
  • Airport Transfer: Mexico to Mexico Airport MEX by Business Car: $86
  • Airport Transfer: Mexico to Mexico Airport MEX by Luxury SUV: $91
  • Airport Transfer: Mexico to Mexico Airport MEX by Luxury SUV/Van: $91
  • Arrival Transfer: Mexico Airport MEX to Mexico by Business Car: $86
  • Arrival Transfer: Mexico Airport MEX to Mexico by Luxury SUV: $91
  • Departure Transfer: Mexico to Mexico Airport MEX by Business Car: $86
  • Departure Transfer: Mexico to Mexico Airport MEX by Luxury SUV: $91

Is it cheaper to fly into Bordeaux or Mexico City?

Prices for flights to both Mexico City and Bordeaux 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
    Bordeaux 45
    Mexico City 25

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bordeaux

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bordeaux.

  • No Diet Club : Bordeaux Food Tour in Les Chartrons !: $64
  • Bordeaux - sweet food tour of the old city: $64
  • NO DIET CLUB - Unique food tour in Bordeaux !: $64
  • 2-Hour River Dinner Cruise: $74
  • Sweet Specialties Tasting Bakeries Food Tour: $82
  • Bordeaux : Afternoon Food Tour by a local guide: $85
  • Bordeaux Organic Food Tour - French Apéro Style: $93
  • Bordeaux : unforgettable Food Tour by a local guide: $96
  • Private Bakery, Chocolate & Patisserie Food Tour: $96
  • Bordeaux Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $103
  • Guided Food Tour with Tastings: $107
  • Pastry Cooking Class: $107

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
    4.27
  • 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:

  • Traveling Spoon Mexican Tacos and Tortillas Private Online Cooking Class: $40
  • Virtual Mexican Cooking Class (private and personalized): $50
  • Veracruz and Boca del Rio Food Tour with Mangroves Boat Trip: $50
  • Local Markets & Food Tour in Mexico City: $50
  • Tortilla Crawl: Food Tour in Mexico City: $55
  • Uruapan Food Tour: $60
  • 3 Hours Food Tour Best Vegan Tacos in Mexico City: $67
  • Muchos moles: Multi-variety mole cooking class and feast: $71
  • Mexico City Vegan & Veggie Market Explorer plus Cooking Lesson: $73
  • Street Food Tour with Friends: $75
  • La Roma Authentic Downtown Food Tour: Tacos and Local Flavors: $78
  • Food Tour with Ride an Electric Bike in Mexico: $80

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bordeaux 7.89
    Mexico City 14

Tours and Activities in Bordeaux

Here are a few actual costs in Bordeaux for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • "Bordeaux by bicycle: a 3-hour tour immersive experience": $39
  • "Explore Saint-Émilion on e-Bikes: Small Group, Full-Day Tour": $197
  • 1-Hour Bordeaux Electric Scooter Tour: $27
  • 2 hours - Bordeaux Private tour with a native guide: $164
  • 4 Hours Gastronomic Tour in Bordeaux the Sandwiches of the World: $64
  • Aperitive guided cruise « Wine and Canelé »: $20
  • Blind Tasting: 5 Bordeaux Natural Wine + Cheese experience: $54
  • Bordeaux - Private Historic Walking Tour: $462
  • Bordeaux : Discovery Stroll and Reading Walking Tour: $2.14
  • Bordeaux : Must-See Attractions Walking Tour: $75
  • Bordeaux Bike Tour - Private: $217
  • Bordeaux Christmas Market Tour: $309

Tours and Activities in Mexico City

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

  • MUCHO Museum of Chocolate Entrance Ticket: $4.71
  • Franz Mayer Museum Admission Ticket: $5.89
  • Double Decker Bus Night Tour: $5.89
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour-Moctezuma and the Zocalo:The Aztec Empire : $6.99
  • Night Bus Tour Knowing Mexico City: $7.26
  • Memory and Tolerance Museum Entry Ticket: $8.25
  • Mexico City (Historic Centre) City Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.84
  • Mexico City (Coyoacan) City Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.84
  • Mexico City (Historic Centre) Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Tour: $8.96
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Night Tour in a Double Decker Bus: $12
  • Teotihuacan Archaeological Site Skip-the-Line Ticket: $12

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bordeaux 26
    Mexico City 19

Sample the Local Flavors in Bordeaux

Also in Bordeaux, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine and Trade Museum Entry Ticket & Wine Tasting: $11
  • Bordeaux Wine and Trade Museum Admission Ticket with Wine Tasting: $11
  • Distillery Tour in Bordeaux with Spirits Tasting: $16
  • Wine Tasting Cruise: $23
  • Cité du Vin Direct Ticket and Wine Tasting: $24
  • Bordeaux Pub Crawl: $25
  • Taillan-Médoc: Château Visit and Wine Tasting in Bordeaux: $27
  • Wine Tour and Tasting: $29
  • Unusual Wine Tasting Experience - Wood & Wine: $30
  • Discover Bordeaux vineyard : special wine tasting with two cellar men brothers: $32
  • Wine Country Vineyards Tour w/ Local Wine Tastings: $59
  • Bordeaux Vineyards Wine Tasting Half-Day Trip: $62

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: $24
  • CDMX Pub Crawl: Mexico City Bar Crawl: $25
  • Nightly Historic Center From Above© Rooftop Bar Crawl +Taco Snack: $129
  • 2 Hours Private Mexican Wine Tasting in Polanco: $155
  • 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 Bordeaux and Mexico City, we can see that Mexico City is more expensive. And not only is Bordeaux much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux.

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


Which is Bigger, Bordeaux or Mexico City?

Mexico City has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Bordeaux. When comparing the sizes of Bordeaux 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.