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

Should you visit Canberra or Mexico City?

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

Should I visit Canberra 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.

Canberra

Canberra is a diverse, under-rated, and cultural city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the hiking, 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. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Canberra and Mexico City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Canberra or Mexico City?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Mexico City than Canberra, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Mexico City is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Canberra is known for its hiking. Mexico City is more touristy than Canberra and is known for its vibrant street food scene, colorful markets, and historic architecture. It is also home to Zócalo. Canberra is popular for its educational museums and the nearby nature reserves.

How is Canberra different from Mexico City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Mexico City is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Mexico City are world-renowned. 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 Canberra specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. As Australia's capital, there are a large number of museums around town that focus on everything from history and culture to science and nature. Some of the most interesting are the Australian War Memorial, the New Parliament House, the Museum of Australian Democracy, the National Gallery of Australia, and the National Science and Technology Centre, but there are many more.

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

Mexico City is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Canberra 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.

Dining out in Canberra is an experience not to be missed. There's a trendy culinary scene as well as nearby vineyards that provide great wine. You'll find everything from family-friendly and casual to upscale and fine dining.

Is Canberra or Mexico City Better for Nightlife?

Mexico City is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Mexico City is a must-see party destination. 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.

Canberra has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are local pubs and music venues that offer fun entertainment in the evening. You can sip wine or practice your dance moves at one of the city's clubs.

Is Canberra or Mexico City Better for its Old Town?

Mexico City is a popular place for its old town. However, Canberra does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Mexico City. 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.

Canberra does not have a historic old town.

Is Canberra or Mexico City Better for Hiking?

Canberra is a popular place for its hiking trails. However, Mexico City is not a hiking destination.

Canberra is a good destination for hiking. There's one national park - Namadgi, as well as green space, rolling hills, and hiking trails just outside of town.

Mexico City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Canberra or Mexico City?

Mexico City is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Mexico City draws large crowds to its 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.

Many visitors go to Canberra to go shopping. Caberra Centre is the city's largest shopping centre and it has all of the usual international brands.

Is Canberra or Mexico City Better for Families?

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

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Canberra is very family-friendly. There are interactive museums and science centers such as Questacon, the National Dinosaur Museum, and the National Zoo and Aquarium. There are also cultural and historical museums such as the Australian War Memorial, the Museum of Australian Democracy, and the National Museum of Australia. The city also has plenty of outdoor space and hands on crafts that kids will enjoy.

Mexico City is known to be 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 Canberra or Mexico City Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Canberra and Mexico City make for a good place to visit.

Canberra makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. As the city has plenty of date night activities like nice restaurants, interesting shows, and trendy wineries. During the day you can explore the outdoor setting, have a picnic, or visit a vineyard.

Mexico City is a good city for couples to visit. 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 Canberra or Mexico City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mexico City is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Canberra is lacking in options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Mexico City. It's a big city with a wonderful atmosphere and many hostels. Backpackers who want to experience the culture, food, and personality of Mexico will love a visit here.

Canberra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Despite being the capital city, few backpackers actually spend much time in town. There are some budget-friendly motels if you're stopping by.

Is Canberra or Mexico City Better for Students?

Both Canberra and Mexico City are high quality destinations for students.

Canberra is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a welcoming city that is a fairly popular study abroad destination. Many students appreciate the friendly atmosphere, safe environment, and great economic setting.

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

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

Mexico City is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Mexico City has some very good public transit options. The city has a complex and comprehensive public transit system that includes a metro, metrobus, and local buses.

You'll find some public transit in Canberra, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are public buses as well as a light rail system. The Red Explorer Loop bus goes by many of the city's sights.

Is Canberra or Mexico City a more walkable city?

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

Canberra is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of the city that are walkable and possible to explore on foot, but in general this is a very car-centered city.

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

Should I spend more time in Mexico City or Canberra?

How long in Canberra or Mexico City?

In either Canberra or Mexico City, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Mexico City than Canberra because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Canberra, and 3-5 days is enough time in Mexico City.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mexico City than Canberra 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.

One day in Canberra or Mexico City?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Canberra. 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 Canberra or Mexico City?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the diverse destination of Canberra. 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 Canberra or Mexico City?

The cultural city of Canberra offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. 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 Canberra or Mexico City?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Canberra. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 Walking Tours in Australia, The Best Eco Tours in Australia, The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Canberra or Mexico City?

Mexico City has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Canberra. When comparing the sizes of Canberra 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.