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

Should you visit Genoa or Mexico City?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Genoa or Mexico City, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Genoa

Genoa is a vibrant, colorful, and energetic port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Mexico City

Mexico City is a dynamic, colorful, and cultural 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Genoa and Mexico City: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Mexico City than Genoa. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Mexico City is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Genoa attracts visitors for its beaches and impressive beauty. Genoa is more touristy than Mexico City and is known for its maritime history, its vibrant cultural scene, and being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus. Mexico City is famous for its vibrant street food scene, colorful markets, and historic architecture. It is also well known for Zócalo.

How is Genoa different from Mexico City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Genoa
Mexico City

Mexico City is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its sights and museums.

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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Genoa. The city has a long history and it is filled with monuments, palaces, and museums. Popular places to visit include the Via Garibaldi Palaces, the aquarium (one of the largest in Europe), the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and Santi Ambrogio.


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

Genoa
Mexico City

Mexico City is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Mexico City is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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, Genoa makes for a great culinary experience. The city's maritime roots have influenced its cuisine and you'll find seafood in many local dishes. Other classic Genoese flavors include pesto, anchovies, fried squid, and focaccia and cheese.

Is Genoa or Mexico City Better for Nightlife?

Genoa
Mexico City

Mexico City is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for nightlife.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Genoa. The city lights up at night and it's fun to experience the activity and energy. There's a nice evening atmosphere with many people out and about. You can grab drinks in Piazza Lavagna or see live music in Porto Antico. There are also many bars and clubs around town.

Is Genoa or Mexico City Better for Beaches?

Genoa
Mexico City

Genoa is a decent place to visit for the beach. However, Mexico City is not a beach destination.

The beach in Genoa is worth checking out. While many people head to other nearby towns to enjoy the beach, you will also find a beach just ten minutes from the old town by bus. Boccadasse is one of the closest beaches to town. It's also possible to do a day trip to other more famous beaches in the area, but you need to be prepared to travel a bit farther.

Mexico City is not a beach destination.


Is Genoa or Mexico City Better for its Old Town?

Genoa
Mexico City

Genoa and Mexico City both have nice historical old towns that attract visitors.

Genoa has an old town worth visiting. The old town is large and complex, with many different time periods represented in the architecture and development style.

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 the Shopping Better in Genoa or Mexico City?

Genoa
Mexico City

Mexico City is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for shopping.

Many people travel to Mexico City specifically to go shopping. 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.

Genoa is a great destination for shopping. You can pick up a number of different souvenirs around town including baskets, t-shirts, and local pesto. Popular shopping areas include Galleria Mazzini, Via Roma, and Via XX Settembr.

Is Genoa or Mexico City Better for Families?

Genoa
Mexico City

Genoa and Mexico City are both very good destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Genoa. The city is home to the second biggest aquarium in Europe as well as the Galata Maritime Museum and the Nazario Sauro Submarine. In the port there's also Vascello Nettuno, which was a pirate ship that was used in the filming of the movie 'Pirates' by Roman Polanski. Other fun kid-friendly attractions include La Biosfera, The Children's Museum, and the Bigo Lift.

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 Genoa or Mexico City Better for Couples?

Genoa
Mexico City

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

Genoa makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a beautiful port city with charming neighborhoods and some great restaurants. Couples will enjoy exploring this beautiful city and visiting its palaces and cathedrals.

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 Genoa or Mexico City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Genoa
Mexico City

For backpackers, both Genoa and Mexico City are very good places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Genoa. There are a number of affordable hostels in the area, and while this isn't the top backpacker destination in Italy, it is a nice place to spend some time.

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 Genoa or Mexico City Better for Students?

Genoa
Mexico City

For students, both Genoa and Mexico City are very good places to visit.

Genoa is a great port city to visit as a student. It's a popular study abroad destination so you'll find a number of international students in the area. The city is also well connected for exploring the region.

Students come from all over to stay in Mexico City. International students love the art, architecture, food, and culture that this colorful city has to offer.


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

Genoa
Mexico City

Genoa and Mexico City both offer very good public transit to get you around.

Genoa offers a very effecient public transportation network. There's a wide range of different public transit options that are all operated by AMT. The system includes buses, an underground (one line), funiculars (two), lifts (ten), a boat, cogwheel and narrow gauge railways.

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 Genoa or Mexico City a more walkable city?

Genoa
Mexico City

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

Genoa is a very walkable destination. The old town, where most tourists spend the majority of their time, is 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 Genoa Worth Visiting? and Is Mexico City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mexico City or Genoa?

How long in Genoa or Mexico City?

In either Genoa or Mexico City, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Mexico City than Genoa because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Genoa, and 3-5 days is enough time in Mexico City.

Couples should spend more time in Genoa than Mexico City. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Genoa 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 Genoa 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 Genoa or Mexico City? Ideal Length of Stay
    Genoa 2-4 
    Mexico City 3-5

One day in Genoa or Mexico City?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the energetic port city of Genoa. 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.

Each neighborhood in Mexico City has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.


A weekend in Genoa or Mexico City?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the vibrant destination of Genoa. This port 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mexico City. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Genoa or Mexico City?

The historic port city of Genoa 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 fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Mexico City has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Genoa or Mexico City?

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

You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant big city of Mexico City. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico.


Which place is cheaper, Mexico City or Genoa?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Genoa is €150, 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 Genoa and Mexico City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Genoa 88
    Mexico City 38
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Genoa 176
    Mexico City 76
Compare Hotels in Genoa and Mexico City

Looking for a hotel in Genoa 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 Genoa


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: Genoa Hotel Prices and Mexico City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Genoa 8.69
    Mexico City 12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Genoa

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

  • Savona Cruise Port to Genoa hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $118
  • Savona Cruise Port to Genoa hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $59
  • Savona Cruise Port to Genoa Airport Private Departure Transfer: $59
  • Private transfer from Genoa to Portofino with Hotel or Cruise Port pick-up: $120
  • Private Transfer: Genoa Cruise Port to Genoa City in Minivan: $66
  • Private Transfer from/to Genoa to/from Portofino: $124
  • Private Transfer from/to Genoa Airport: $71
  • Private Transfer from Santa Margherita Port to Genoa Airport GOA: $44
  • Private Transfer from Santa Margherita Cruise Port to Genoa city: $44
  • Private Transfer from Genoa, Savona or Portofino to Genoa Port by Luxury Vehicle: $66
  • Private Transfer from Genoa city to Santa Margherita Cruise Port: $44
  • Private Transfer from Genoa Airport GOA to Santa Margherita Port: $44

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:

  • Mexico City to San Luis Potosi - Private Transfer with Optional Sightseeing: $299
  • Mexico City to Guanajuato - Private Transfer with Optional Sightseeing: $269
  • Mexico City International Airport to Mexico City - Private Round-trip Transfer: $254
  • Mexico City Private Airport Transfers To or From Hotels: $250
  • Transfer from Mexico City Airport to Puebla: $245
  • Mexico City to Guanajuato - Private transfer, 2 Sightseeing hours, local driver: $237
  • Mexico City Private Transfer to or from Airport: $197
  • Roundtrip Transfer Private Minivan Mexico City Airport (MEX) - Mexico City: $187
  • RoundTrip Transfer Private Minivan Mexico City Airport (MEX) -Tlalnepantla: $167
  • Mexico City to Puebla - Private Transfer with Optional Sightseeing: $153
  • One-way transfer + City Tour: $143
  • Mexico City Airport MEX Tecozautla Thermal Round-Trip Transfer: $142

Is it cheaper to fly into Genoa or Mexico City?

Prices for flights to both Mexico City and Genoa 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
    Genoa 51
    Mexico City 25

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Genoa

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

  • Genoese cooking lesson in the garden with lunch: $68
  • Genoa Old town Food Tour: $74
  • Itinerant dinner in the old town: $75
  • Street Food Tour: $85
  • Do Eat Better Experience - Food Tours in Genoa: $86
  • Traditional Food Tour: $91
  • Lunch or dinner and cooking demo at a local home in Camogli: $93
  • Lunch or dinner and cooking demo at a local home in Savona: $93
  • Dining experience with cooking demo and wines in Rapallo: $93
  • Traditional Home Cooking Class in Genoa: $93
  • Tour of Genoa historic center and wine tasting with dinner: $93
  • Small-group Street food tour in Savona: $97

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.
    Genoa 20
    Mexico City 14

Tours and Activities in Genoa

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Genoa.

  • 2 Hours Private Historical Tour in Genoa: $104
  • 3 Hours Private Walking Tour of Genoa from the Cruise Terminal: $240
  • 7 Islands 7 Stops Tour of Archipelago La Maddalena: $90
  • Aquarium of Genoa + Panera Ice Cream Taste experience: $32
  • Aquarium of Genoa Ticket and Whale Watching Cruise: $70
  • Aquarium of Entry Ticket and Aperitif: $31
  • Cesarine: Market Tour & Dining at a Local's Home in Genoa: $152
  • City Sightseeing Genoa Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $27
  • Departure by Private Car from Genoa City to Genoa Cruise Port: $44
  • Discover Genoa, old town walking tour: $131
  • E-Bike, Scooter and Scooter Tour: $38
  • E-bike tour in Genova: $82

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
  • Frida Kahlo Tour with Admission Tickets: $76
  • Monarch Butterfly Tour from Mexico City: $220
  • Private Tour Teotihuacan Essentials: $129
  • Private Walking Tour Historic Center of Mexico City: $129
  • Romantic Walking tour in Mexico City: $150
  • Romantic tour in San Andrés Mixquic: $150
  • Teotihuacan Half-Day Tour with Tequila tasting: $37
  • The best of Mixquic walking tour: $150
  • VIP - FULL DAY - Mexico City Private Tour : $209
  • 1 Day Hot Air Balloon Tour to the Pyramids in Teotihuacan: $295
  • 2 Hours Private Tour with Electric Scooter in Mexico City: $79

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Genoa 10
    Mexico City 19

Sample the Local Flavors in Genoa

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

  • Guided Eco Hiking and Sea View Wine Tasting in Portofino Park: $75
  • 3 Hour Pesto Making and Wine Tasting Activity in Campetto Genoa: $105
  • CAMOGLI: PRIVATE Ligurian Wine Tasting Experience and walking on National Park: $126

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 Genoa and Mexico City, we can see that Mexico City is more expensive. And not only is Genoa much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Genoa 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 Genoa would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Genoa 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 Genoa.

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


Which is Bigger, Genoa or Mexico City?

Mexico City has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Genoa. When comparing the sizes of Genoa 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.