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

Should you visit Kuala Lumpur or Mexico City?

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 Kuala Lumpur and Mexico City. 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.

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a modern, welcoming, and friendly city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. 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 cultural, diverse, and vibrant city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Kuala Lumpur and Mexico City: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Petronas Twin Towers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • 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 Kuala Lumpur or Mexico City?

You'll generally find more things to do in Mexico City than Kuala Lumpur. Mexico City is bigger than Kuala Lumpur, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Mexico City is better known for its nightlife and historical sights, while Kuala Lumpur is more popular for its impressive beauty. Kuala Lumpur is more touristy than Mexico City and is known for its blend of cultures and cuisines, its mix of modern and colonial, and its bustling neighborhoods with markets and restaurants. Mexico City is well known for its vibrant street food scene, colorful markets, and historic architecture. Also, Mexico City is famous for Zócalo.

How is Kuala Lumpur different from Mexico City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Kuala Lumpur
Mexico City

Spend time exploring the amazing sights and museums in either Kuala Lumpur or Mexico City.

Travelers visit Kuala Lumpur from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The most notable landmark in the city is the famed Petronas Twin Towers, but other popular sights include Merdeka Square, Kuala Lumpur Tower, and the National Museum.

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.


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

Kuala Lumpur
Mexico City

Foodies will find both Kuala Lumpur and Mexico City both to be amazing destinations.

Eat your way through Kuala Lumpur, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The food is influenced by the populations that live here and you'll find a lot of Malay, Chinese and Indian flavors. Spicy curries and noodle dishes are very common. Street food is also a mainstay in this city and it's an experience to wander the market streets and sample dishes from the different vendors.

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.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Mexico City Better for Nightlife?

Kuala Lumpur
Mexico City

Mexico City is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Kuala Lumpur is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

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.

Kuala Lumpur is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Rooftop bars and lounges are popular hangout spots after the sun sets. For classy pubs and clubs head to the Golden Triangle district, but if drinking and partying isn't your thing, the city's night markets are not to be missed.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Mexico City Better for its Old Town?

Kuala Lumpur
Mexico City

Mexico City is a good destination for its historic old town. However, Kuala Lumpur does not have a historic old town.

Mexico City is a good destination for visiting its 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.

Kuala Lumpur does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Kuala Lumpur or Mexico City?

Kuala Lumpur
Mexico City

Shoppers can find a variety of amazing stores in both Kuala Lumpur and Mexico City.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Kuala Lumpur. The city is filled with shopping malls, and a big appeal of shopping in this city is the very affordable prices. Some of the most popular shopping malls are Suria KLCC at the base of the Petronas Towers as well as the malls in the Bukit Bintang/Jalan Imbi 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.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Mexico City Better for Families?

Kuala Lumpur
Mexico City

Both Kuala Lumpur and Mexico City are superb family-friendly destinations.

Kuala Lumpur is a very family-friendly destination. This family-friendly city includes a surprising number of opportunities to experience wildlife. There's an aquarium, petting zoos, and places to see the wild monkeys. There are also large playgrounds including one by the Petronas Towers. Kids will also enjoy exploring the Botanical Gardens, Butterfly Park, and the Forest Eco Park.

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.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Mexico City Better for Couples?

Kuala Lumpur
Mexico City

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

Kuala Lumpur makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This city has diverse restaurants and a number of luxury hotels at affordable prices. For couples who enjoy romance on a budget, this is a good city.

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 Kuala Lumpur or Mexico City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kuala Lumpur
Mexico City

Kuala Lumpur and Mexico City are both superb destinations for backpackers.

Kuala Lumpur is very popular with the backpacker crowd. This is a popular stop for backpackers on the Southeast Asia circuit. It's modern and comfortable but also affordable and diverse. The city has a number of affordable hostels, but it also has a more laid back and authentic vibe than you'll find in many other Southeast Asian cities. The city also isn't as touristy as some other cities, so the people are down to Earth and helpful without being jaded by all of the vacationers.

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.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Mexico City Better for Students?

Kuala Lumpur
Mexico City

Kuala Lumpur is very popular for its student-friendly activities. Also, Mexico City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Many students frequent Kuala Lumpur. It's affordability, diversity, and dynamic atmosphere make this a great city for international students.

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

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

Kuala Lumpur
Mexico City

Kuala Lumpur 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.

Kuala Lumpur has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The system is relatively easy to navigate with most signs in English. There are buses, a monorail, light rail transit and commuter trains.

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 Kuala Lumpur or Mexico City a more walkable city?

Kuala Lumpur
Mexico City

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

Kuala Lumpur is a very walkable destination. Traffic can be congested, but there are many wide sidewalks and pedestrian areas around town. The River of Life waterfront area offers nice paths that connect many tourist 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 Kuala Lumpur Worth Visiting? and Is Mexico City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mexico City or Kuala Lumpur?

How long in Kuala Lumpur or Mexico City?

In either Kuala Lumpur or Mexico City, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Kuala Lumpur has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than Mexico City. In general, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Kuala Lumpur, and 3-5 days is enough time in Mexico City.

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

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


  • How many days in Kuala Lumpur or Mexico City? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kuala Lumpur 1-5 
    Mexico City 3-5

One day in Kuala Lumpur or Mexico City?

Kuala Lumpur is a friendly city where you can fill many days. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Mexico City, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this colorful city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Kuala Lumpur or Mexico City?

Kuala Lumpur is a welcoming big city where you can fill many days. 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 fun place to experience. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.


Five days in Kuala Lumpur or Mexico City?

Kuala Lumpur is a diverse city where you can fill many days. 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.

In Mexico City, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this vibrant big city offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Kuala Lumpur or Mexico City?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Kuala Lumpur. 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 popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Kuala Lumpur, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Malaysia, The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico.


Which place is cheaper, Mexico City or Kuala Lumpur?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Kuala Lumpur is $62, while the average daily cost in Mexico City is $212. 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 Kuala Lumpur and Mexico City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kuala Lumpur $36
    Mexico City $41
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kuala Lumpur $72
    Mexico City $82
Compare Hotels in Kuala Lumpur and Mexico City

Looking for a hotel in Kuala Lumpur 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 Kuala Lumpur


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: Kuala Lumpur Hotel Prices and Mexico City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kuala Lumpur $6.45
    Mexico City $13
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Kuala Lumpur

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Kuala Lumpur are as follows:


  • Taxi Ride
    $3.17
  • Metro Ride (for Two)
    $0.68
  • Short Taxi Ride
    $3.17
  • Taxi From Airport
    $19
  • Bus from Airport
    $1.69
  • Train & Boat to Pulau Ketam
    $2.53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kuala Lumpur

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

  • i-City Shah Alam Theme Park Adventure with Return Transfer: $59
  • VIP Departure Transfer : Kuala Lumpur Airport: $196
  • VIP Arrival Transfer : Kuala Lumpur Airport: $196
  • Transfer To Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort : $30
  • Taman Negara Kuala Tahan Transfer Private Hyundai Starex: $120
  • Sunway Lagoon: Ticket with Transfer from Kuala Lumpur: $88
  • Sunway Lagoon: Admission Ticket & 2-Way Transfer: $72
  • Sunway Lagoon Theme Park with Round-Trip Transfer: $83
  • Sunway Lagoon Theme Park to Kuala Lumpur Hotels Transfer: $17
  • Sunway Lagoon Theme Park Ticket and 1 WAY Transfer (SIC – shared transfer): $55
  • Sunway Lagoon One-Day Admission Tickets Including Transfer: $68
  • Sunway Lagoon One-Day Admission (With & Without Transfer): $77

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Mexico City

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Mexico City:


  • Metro
    $1.19
  • Uber Ride
    $4.18

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Mexico City

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

  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Mexico APT-HTL (MEX) : $36
  • Transfer to and from Mexico City Airport: $30
  • Transfer in Private Minivan from Tlalnepantla - Mexico City Airport (MEX): $83
  • Transfer in Private Minivan from Mexico City (MEX) - Mexico Airport: $93
  • Transfer from Mexico City Airport to Puebla: $245
  • Transfer Mexico city Airport - Mexico city Downtown hotels: $18
  • Transfer Mexico City Airport to Downtown and Zona Rosa Hotels: $80
  • Transfer Mexico City - Taxco - Acapulco (2 days): $83
  • Transfer Airport - hotel in Mexico City: $80
  • Toluca to Toluca Int Airport (TLC) - Departure Private Transfer: $65
  • Toluca Int Airport(TLC) to Toluca - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $130
  • Toluca Airport TLC to Toluca Hotels Round Trip Private Transfer: $130

Is it cheaper to fly into Kuala Lumpur or Mexico City?

Prices for flights to both Mexico City and Kuala Lumpur 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
    Kuala Lumpur $15
    Mexico City $27
Typical Food Prices in Kuala Lumpur

For Kuala Lumpur, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Dinner at Ding Tai Fung
    $8.44
  • Roti Bread
    $0.21
  • Food Court Lunch
    $3.04
  • Dinner at Indian Restaurant (for Two)
    $4.54

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Kuala Lumpur

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

  • Nightlife Street Food Tour with 6 Tastings: $41
  • Malaysian Culture and Street Food Tour : $44
  • Sambal Streets Kuala Lumpur Food Tour with 15+ Tastings: $49
  • Street Food Tour with 15+ Tastings: $49
  • Cultural Night Tour with Dinner: $55
  • From KualaLumpur: Kuala Selangor Fireflies Tour with Dinner: $56
  • ARAS Restaurant at KL Tower Buffet Dinner: $59
  • Kuala Lumpur Food Tour: $59
  • Spiritual Healing and Authentic Cooking with Local Host: $61
  • Kuala Lumpur by Night and Malaysian Food Tour: $61
  • Petaling Street Heritage Food Tour: $63
  • Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings with Locals: $64

Typical Food Prices in Mexico City

For Mexico City, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch for Two
    $13
  • Coffee and Snacks
    $4.65
  • Dinner for 2
    $27

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
  • Tortilla Crawl: Food Tour in Mexico City: $55
  • Private Half-Day Traditional Markets Street Food Tour in Mexico City: $57
  • La Roma Authentic Downtown Food Tour: Tacos and Local Flavors: $75
  • San Angel Mexican Food Tour : $80
  • Flamenco Tablao Live Show & dinner: $83
  • Rural Cooking Class at the Mountains: $85
  • Small Group Multi Variety Mole Cooking Class in La Condesa: $86
  • Small Group Multi-Variety Tamal Cooking Class in La Condesa: $86
  • Private Mexican Cooking Lesson in a Coyoacan Apartment: $86
  • Mexico City Origins: Archeology, History, Art & Food Tour: $86

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kuala Lumpur $13
    Mexico City $15
Typical Entertainment Prices in Kuala Lumpur

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Kuala Lumpur's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • KL Tower Admission (for Two)
    $9.50
  • Canopy Walk at FRIM Forest Reserve
    $1.06

Tours and Activities in Kuala Lumpur

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

  • Adventure Sports & Thrilling White-water Rafting in Kampar River: $245
  • Half Day Kuala Lumpur Culture And Communities Exploration Tour: $30
  • Half-day Kuala Lumpur City Tour: $34
  • Historic And Heritage Melaka Tour: $55
  • History, Heritage & Culture Of Malaysia Tour: $62
  • KLCC Lake Symphony & The River of Life Tour from Kuala Lumpur: $33
  • Kuala Selangor Firefly Tour : Exclusive Deal: $55
  • Malacca Instagram Tour: Most Famous Spots (Private & All-Inclusive): $184
  • Malaysia: Aquaria KLCC Entry Ticket: $13
  • Shah Alam Islamic Arts and Culture Tours : $31
  • *12 Hrs Kuala Lumpur Van Tour from Bentong w' Tour Guide: $91
  • *12 Hrs Kuala Lumpur Van Tour from Port Dickson w' Tour Guide: $91

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
  • Mexico City Tour and Visit Chapultepec Castle. Private service: $119
  • Private City Tour Downtown Mexico City: $35
  • Private Tour Teotihuacan Essentials: $129
  • Private Walking Tour Historic Center of Mexico City: $130
  • Romantic Walking tour in Mexico City: $150
  • Romantic tour in San Andrés Mixquic: $150
  • Teotihuacan Early Access tour with Tequila Tasting: $42
  • Teotihuacan Private Tour: $135
  • 1 Day Hot Air Balloon Tour to the Pyramids in Teotihuacan: $295
  • 2 Day tour Teotihuacan pyramids +City tour & Xochimilco : $132

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kuala Lumpur $6.25
    Mexico City $20
Typical Alcohol Prices in Kuala Lumpur

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Kuala Lumpur are as follows:


  • Bottle of Wine
    $9.50

Sample the Local Flavors in Mexico City

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

  • CDMX Pub Crawl: Mexico City Bar Crawl: $25
  • Mexico City Bar Crawl: $39
  • Best Bar Crawl at Downtown: $49
  • Private Mexican Wine Tasting & Food Tasting: $78
  • 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 Kuala Lumpur and Mexico City, we can see that Mexico City is more expensive. And not only is Kuala Lumpur much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Kuala Lumpur 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 Kuala Lumpur would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kuala Lumpur 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 Kuala Lumpur.

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


Which is Bigger, Kuala Lumpur or Mexico City?

Mexico City has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Kuala Lumpur. When comparing the sizes of Kuala Lumpur 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.