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

Should you visit Hong Kong or Mexico City?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Hong Kong 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.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a cosmopolitan, glamorous, and diverse city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Mexico City

Mexico City is a dynamic, colorful, and cultural 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.

Hong Kong and Mexico City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hong Kong or Mexico City?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Hong Kong than Mexico City. While Mexico City is larger than Hong Kong, Hong Kong has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Hong Kong is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Mexico City is known for its museums, nightlife, and historical sights. Hong Kong is more touristy than Mexico City and is known for its modern skyscrapers, colorful waterfront, lush parks, and amazing dim sum. It is also home to Victoria Peak. Mexico City is popular for its vibrant street food scene, colorful markets, and historic architecture.

How is Hong Kong different from Mexico City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Mexico City is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Hong Kong 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Hong Kong. The city's skyline is one of the most famous "landmarks", but you'll also want to visit Victoria Peak, the Tian Tan Buddha Statue, Wong Tai Sin Temple, and Avenue of Stars.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Hong Kong and Mexico City can be an enjoyable experience.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Hong Kong is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city's population is famous for its frequency of dining out, and the prolific diversity of restaurants is obvious from the moment you arrive. There are street food stalls and night markets, as well as luxury award winning restaurants. The city holds tight to its culinary traditions, but fusion restaurants are creeping in as well. Some of the most famous Hong Kong foods include dim sum, sweet and sour pork, and roast goose.

Many restaurants in Mexico City have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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 Hong Kong or Mexico City Better for Nightlife?

Mexico City is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Mexico City is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Hong Kong is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city lights up after the sun sets. You'll find a diverse range of activities in the evening with everything from night markets to concerts and parties. There's a wonderful mix of traditional and contemporary activities, particularly around Lan Kwai Fong. Many of the most popular venues are found around Central and, like everything else in Hong Kong, the venues are full of energy.

Is Hong Kong or Mexico City Better for Beaches?

Hong Kong is an excellent place to visit for the beach. However, Mexico City is not a beach destination.

Hong Kong is considered a top beach destination. You actually don't have to travel far from the city center to find a relatively quiet, sandy beach. The different beaches on Hong Kong Island are relatively close to each other, and each has its own atmosphere. If you need a break from the heat and the crowds, then a beach day is a fun option. Hong Kong's natural coastline give way to popular beaches including Repulse Bay Beach and Shek O Beach. Each offers a number of amenities and dining options.

Mexico City is not a beach destination.

Is Hong Kong or Mexico City Better for its Old Town?

Mexico City is a nice place to visit for its old town. However, Hong Kong 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.

Hong Kong does not have a historic old town.

Is Hong Kong or Mexico City Better for Hiking?

Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong. The city is surrounded by dramatic mountains and beautiful viewpoints, making it easy to enjoy a day in nature. The hikes will offer impressive views and dramatic rock formations. Popular hikes in the area include The Peak, Dragon's Back, and the Violet Hill and Twin Peak hike.

Mexico City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hong Kong or Mexico City?

Shoppers can find a variety of fantastic stores in both Hong Kong and Mexico City.

Known for shopping, Hong Kong draws large crowds to its stores. There is a high concentration of shopping malls in the city, and you'll likely find yourself cutting through malls to access different parts of town. The city is arguably one of the best shopping cities in the world. Popular items to purchase in the city include designer clothes, handbags, electronics, jewelry, watches, and tailor-made suits.

Mexico City is a world class destination for shoppers. 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 Hong Kong or Mexico City Better for Families?

Hong Kong is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Mexico City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Hong Kong is a very family-friendly destination. In addition to its many fascinating cultural experiences like visiting the markets and historical landmarks, this city also has a diversity of kid-friendly entertainment options. The most obvious is Disneyland, but there are also other amusement parks and aquariums like Ocean Park. Make sure you check out the Symphony of Lights in the evening and head to The Peak Tower during the day.

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 Hong Kong or Mexico City Better for Couples?

Hong Kong is very popular for couples. Also, Mexico City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Hong Kong makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This city is filled with luxury hotels, beautiful parks, and impressive restaurants. For a romantic evening, check out the Symphony of Lights over Victoria Harbour after the sun sets.

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 Hong Kong or Mexico City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mexico City is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Hong Kong is a good city to visit for backpackers. The city is more expensive than many places, but cheap eateries and free activities are abundant. Many backpackers stay in the Tsim Sha Shui area of Kowloon. This is where you'll find the frequently talked about Chungking Mansions. Times are changing though, and you'll find more hostels on Hong Kong Island these days as well.

Is Hong Kong or Mexico City Better for Students?

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

Mexico City is a great city to visit as a student. International students love the art, architecture, food, and culture that this colorful city has to offer.

Hong Kong is not popular with students.

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

Hong Kong is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Mexico City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Hong Kong has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. Land transportation includes the MTR (Mass Transit Railway), buses, minibuses, and tramways. There are also ferries that connect the different parts of the city.

Public transit in Mexico City is fairly effecient and thorough. The city has a complex and comprehensive public transit system that includes a metro, metrobus, and local buses.

Is Hong Kong or Mexico City a more walkable city?

Hong Kong is very popular for its ease of walking around. However, Mexico City is lacking in options for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Hong Kong. The city has many parks and walking paths that connect different areas.

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 Hong Kong Worth Visiting? and Is Mexico City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mexico City or Hong Kong?

How long in Hong Kong or Mexico City?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Hong Kong than Mexico City. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong or Mexico City?

Hong Kong is a diverse city where you can fill many days. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Mexico City. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Hong Kong or Mexico City?

Hong Kong is a compact big city where you can fill many days. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the colorful big city of Mexico City. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Hong Kong or Mexico City?

Hong Kong is a glamorous city where you can fill many days. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the vibrant city of Mexico City. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Hong Kong or Mexico City?

Hong Kong is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most people come for the beaches. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Mexico City is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see 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 Hong Kong and Mexico City, we can see that Mexico City is more expensive. And not only is Hong Kong much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Hong Kong is in Asia 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 Hong Kong would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong.

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

Which is Bigger, Hong Kong or Mexico City?

Mexico City has a larger population, and is about 61% larger than the population of Hong Kong. When comparing the sizes of Hong Kong 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.