Which place is cheaper, Chicago or Madrid?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
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Should you visit Madrid or Chicago?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Madrid and Chicago can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.
Madrid
Madrid is a friendly, authentic, and cultural city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Madrid travel costs.
Chicago
Chicago is a multicultural, edgey, and cosmopolitan city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Chicago is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, theater, and nightlife. See Chicago travel costs.
Madrid and Chicago: Pros and Cons
Madrid
Pros- Active nightlife
- Good music scene
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Big city activities
- Less museums and historical sights
Chicago
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Numerous theater shows
- Active nightlife
- Good music scene
- Popular beach
- Popular at Christmas
- Known for Christmas markets
- Known for its beauty
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Big city activities
- Home to the Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower)
Is there more to do in Madrid or Chicago?
Visitors will usually find more to do in Chicago than Madrid, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Madrid is well known for its art and architecture, its tapas and culinary scene, and its lively flamenco dancing. Chicago is well known for its thriving sports scene, its iconic local cuisine, and its world class shopping at the Magnificent Mile. Also, Chicago is famous for The Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower).
How is Madrid different from Chicago?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Chicago and Madrid. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Madrid or Chicago?
Madrid
Chicago
Chicago is renowned for its historical sights. Also, Madrid is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.
Travelers visit Chicago from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. There are countless landmarks, museums, and iconic sights in the area. Some of the most famous are the Art Institute of Chicago, Adler Planetarium, and the Museum of Science and Industry. Notable landmarks include the famous Willis Tower - formerly the Sears Tower, Buckingham Fountain, and the iconic Cloud Gate (the bean).
Madrid offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a number of cultural sights in the city including Museo Nacional del Prado, the Royal Palace and Gardens, and Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía.
Is Madrid or Chicago Better for Theater?
Madrid
Chicago
Chicago is renowned for theatre. However, Madrid is not a theatre destination.
Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in Chicago that are not to be missed. Theater is big here with many of the major Broadway productions visiting the city. There is also an endless list of smaller, local theaters to choose from.
Madrid is not a theatre destination.
Is the Food Better in Madrid or Chicago? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?
Madrid
Chicago
There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at amazing restaurants in both Madrid and Chicago.
Many restaurants in Madrid have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has a mix of flavors that come from all of Spain. There are amazing markets where you can grab a meal or snack. There are also many high quality restaurants around town where you're guaranteed a good meal. Local favorites include roast suckling pig, Spanish omelette, and meat and chickpea stew.
Eat your way through Chicago, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. With everything from award-winning luxury restaurants to local dives, this city has something for everyone. It also has very distinct local flavors and dishes that create an identity and bring great pride to the locals. While you're in town you have to try the famous deep dish pizza, Chicago style hot dogs, and Italian beef.
Is Madrid or Chicago Better for Nightlife?
Madrid
Chicago
Chicago is renowned for nightlife. Also, Madrid is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.
Chicago is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. It has a wide range of activities at night, with everything from theater and comedy clubs to dance venues, sporting events, and local bars. It's easy to fill many evenings with whatever activity appeals to you. Popular bars and clubs include the Smart Bar, Beauty Bar, and Le Nocturne.
Madrid offers plenty to do in the evening. Many tourists and international students hang out in the Huertas area, while Malasaña has a bohemian, hipster vibe with small clubs that play indie music. Chueca is a fun area that's known for being gay-friendly with many good bars. Finally, you'll find that the area around Avenida de Brasil is where famous DJs often perform.
Is Madrid or Chicago Better for Music?
Madrid
Chicago
Madrid and Chicago are both destinations where visitors can find amazing live music.
Madrid is known as a music capital around the world. Rock, jazz, and flamenco are all popular in the city. Some of the most well known music venues include Sala Caracol, Sala Clamores, and Costello Club.
Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Chicago The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.
Is Madrid or Chicago Better for Beaches?
Madrid
Chicago
Chicago is a city with good options for its beaches. However, Madrid is not a beach destination.
Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Chicago. While you don't immediately think of beaches when you think of Chicago, there are some nice beaches by the lake. If the weather is nice, it's a great area to spend some time.
Madrid is not a beach destination.
Is the Shopping Better in Madrid or Chicago?
Madrid
Chicago
If you're looking to go shopping, Madrid and Chicago both offer plenty of amazing spots.
People travel from around the world to go shopping in Madrid. Gran Vía is a main thoroughfare in Madrid that is also popular for shopping. Calle Fuencarral is where you'll find the fashion shops and Calle Preciados is a fun pedestrian area to explore.
The abundance of shops in Chicago make it a world-class shopping destination. There are countless neighborhoods that are filled with boutiques, local vendors, and art galleries. The city has some of the country's best shopping opportunities, and the most notable area is the famous Michigan Avenue and the Magnificent Mile.
Is Madrid or Chicago More Beautiful?
Madrid
Chicago
Chicago is a city with good options for its scenery and beauty. However, Madrid is not a destination known for its beauty.
Chicago is a gorgeous place to visit. The water makes this city a truly unique place to explore, and the world class architecture is not to be missed.
Madrid is not a destination known for its beauty.
Is Madrid or Chicago Better for Families?
Madrid
Chicago
Chicago is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Madrid is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.
Chicago is an extremely popular city to visit for families. The city has a large number of activities for kids, including zoos, Shedd Aquarium, impressive children's museums, and large and elaborate playgrounds in Millennium Park. It's easy to keep kids entertained in this very kid-focused city.
Madrid is a very kid-friendly city. Kids love splashing around at Madrid Río, taking a ride on the cable car (Teleférico), and exploring the city's many parks and playgrounds. There's even a maze at Sabatini Gardens. Restaurants around the city are also very kid-friendly.
Is Madrid or Chicago Better for Couples?
Madrid
Chicago
Madrid is a great destination for couples. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.
Couples visit Madrid frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Fun and romantic activities around town include taking a boat ride at Casa de Campo, riding a bike in one of the many parks, and enjoy dinner and show in the evening.
Chicago is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy exploring the city's vibrant theater scene and diverse neighborhoods. There are many varied restaurants and entertainment options that make for a great date night. There are also sporting events, parks, and gardens where couples can explore.
Is Madrid or Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
Madrid
Chicago
Madrid is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.
Madrid is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The many hostels around town make it easy for backpackers to find affordable accommodation while also meeting other travelers.
It's common for backpackers to visit Chicago. The city doesn't have a huge backpacker vibe, but it does have a number of hostels that help keep costs in check.
Is Madrid or Chicago Better for Students?
Madrid
Chicago
For students, both Madrid and Chicago are amazing places to visit.
Madrid is a very popular city for students. With several great universities, this city is popular with international and study abroad students. The city also has a diverse population and an active nightlife that appeals to students.
Chicago is a very popular place to visit for students. The city has a large number of universities that bring in students from around the country and around the globe. It's a huge international city with economic ties and many opportunities connected to the universities.
Is Madrid or Chicago Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?
Madrid
Chicago
Madrid and Chicago both offer amazing public transit to get you around.
Madrid has a great public transit system. The system includes the Madrid Metro, buses, and a light rail system.
Public transit in Chicago is top-notch. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.
Is Madrid or Chicago a more walkable city?
Madrid
Chicago
Madrid is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.
Getting around Madrid on foot is easy. Most tourists stay in the central part of Madrid where it's compact and relatively easy to walk to most tourist sights.
Chicago is very walkable. The city has many restaurants, sights, and hotels that are easily accessible on foot.
For even more information, also check out Is Madrid Worth Visiting? and Is Chicago Worth Visiting?.
Should I spend more time in Chicago or Madrid?
How long in Madrid or Chicago?
In either Madrid or Chicago, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Chicago has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Chicago than Madrid. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Madrid, and 3-5 days is enough time in Chicago.
Families should spend more time in Chicago than Madrid. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Chicago, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Chicago than Madrid. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Chicago that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Madrid than Chicago 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 Madrid.
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How many days in Madrid or Chicago? Ideal Length of StayMadrid 2-5Chicago 3-5
One day in Madrid or Chicago?
Because Madrid is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.
Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the big city destination of Chicago. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.
A weekend in Madrid or Chicago?
Because Madrid is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Madrid has to offer.
Chicago is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.
Five days in Madrid or Chicago?
Madrid is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Madrid has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chicago. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.
A week in Madrid or Chicago?
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Madrid. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Madrid. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.
Travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the diverse big city of Chicago. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona, The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.
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Madrid Prices
Spain PricesChicago Prices
USA Prices -
Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayMadrid $187Chicago $323
The average daily cost (per person) in Madrid is $187, while the average daily cost in Chicago is $323. 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 Madrid and Chicago in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personMadrid $90Chicago $198
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomMadrid $180Chicago $396
Compare Hotels in Madrid and Chicago
Looking for a hotel in Madrid or Chicago? 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.
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: Madrid Hotel Prices and Chicago Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Madrid $21Chicago $37
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Madrid
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Madrid are as follows:
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Taxi Ride$30
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Madrid
Also for Madrid, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Adolfo Suárez Madrid- Barajas Airport private transfer, Pick up.: $96
- Arrival Private Transfer Madrid Airport MAD to Madrid City by Van: $91
- Arrival Private Transfer by Business Car from MAD Airport to Madrid: $68
- Arrival Transfer Madrid Airport MAD to Avila City by Sedan: $293
- Arrival Transfer from Bologna Airport BLQ to Bologna City by Van: $101
- Arrival Transfer from Madrid Airport MAD to Madrid in Private Van: $90
- Arrival Transfer: Madrid Airport MAD to Madrid by Business Car: $85
- Departure Private Transfer Madrid to MAD Airport in a Minibus: $176
- Departure Private Transfer from Madrid to MAD Airport by Van: $88
- Departure Transfer from Madrid to Madrid Airport MAD in Private Car: $83
- Departure Transfer: Madrid to Madrid Airport MAD in Business Car: $85
- Madrid Airport (MAD) to Madrid - Arrival Private Transfer: $43
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Chicago
Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Chicago:
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Parking$19
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Taxi Ride$10
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Taxi from Airport$45
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Chicago
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Chicago:
- Meet and Greet Private SUV Transfer from MDW to Downtown Chicago: $300
- Meet and Greet Private SUV Transfer from ORD to Downtown Chicago: $300
- Group Van Transfers from Chicago O'Hare and Midway Airports: $300
- SUV transfer from downtown Chicago to O'hare or Midway Airport: $260
- Departure Private Transfer: Chicago to O'Hare Airport ORD in Luxury Car: $241
- Arrival Private Transfer: O'Hare Airport ORD to Chicago in Luxury Car: $241
- Midway Airport Transfer to Chicago by Luxury SUV - Inside Meet: $240
- Curbside SUV Transfer from ORD to Downtown Chicago: $240
- Meet and Greet Private Sedan Transfer from MDW to Downtown Chicago: $240
- Private SUV Transfer from Chicago Downtown to Midway airport: $240
- Meet and Greet Private Sedan Transfer from ORD to Downtown Chicago: $240
- O'Hare Airport Transfer to Chicago with Inside Meet - Luxury SUV: $240
Is it cheaper to fly into Madrid or Chicago?
Prices for flights to both Chicago and Madrid 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
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Food Meals for one dayMadrid $68Chicago $85
Typical Food Prices in Madrid
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Madrid:
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Coffee$2.32
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Ice Cream$3.47
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Kebabs (for 2)$18
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Croissant$1.74
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Lunch at Airport (for 2)$18
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Madrid
For Madrid, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- Small-Group Food Tour with Local Tapas & Spanish Wine: $69
- Madrid : Paella and Churros cooking class, ham and wines tasting: $77
- Small-Group Food Tour with Tapas, Wine & Vermouth: $88
- Madrid Food Tour: Best Tapas, Churros & Market Sights by FLT: $89
- Madrid Tapas & Wine Tasting Food Tour – Small Group Local Bars: $94
- The Best Flamenco in Madrid Show with Dinner and Drink: $98
- Madrid Tapas & Paella Cooking Experience with Local Market Visit: $113
- Madrid Local Tapas & History Tour with Dinner: $113
- Flamenco night Show and Dinner in Madrid: $125
- Literary Quarter Tour and Paella Cooking Class in Madrid: $125
- Paella Cooking Class in Madrid with Bottomless Wine Pairing: $141
- Half-Day Spanish Local House Dinner Experience in Madrid: $142
Typical Food Prices in Chicago
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Chicago:
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Dinner for 1$24
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Dinner for 3$118
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Chicago
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Chicago.
- Traveling Spoon Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza Private Online Cooking Class: $59
- Tamales and Tacos with Margarita Cooking Class at Su Casa: $59
- Pizza Walking or Bus Tour: $59
- Deep Dish Cooking Class at Pizzeria Uno in Chicago: $59
- City Cruises Lake Michigan Lunch or Dinner Cruise: $63
- Downtown Chicago Walking Pizza Tour: $69
- Downtown Pizza Guided Walking Tour with Tastings: $73
- City Cruises Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner River Cruise: $74
- Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Distillery: $75
- Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Distillery in Chicago: $75
- Immersive Potsticker Cooking Class in Chicago: $75
- Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Distillery in Chicago: $75
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Madrid $38Chicago $47
Tours and Activities in Madrid
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Madrid.
- Dark Side of Madrid Ghosts Executions and Murders Walking Tour: $2.47
- Madrid Walking Tour from Puerta del Sol to Retiro Park: $3.55
- Madrid Self-Guided Walking City Tour & Scavenger Hunt: $5.93
- Madrid Historical Self-Guided Walking City Tour & Scavenger Hunt: $5.93
- Madrid Old Town Self Guided Tour with Mobile App: $5.99
- Let's Tapear! The Madrid Tapas Route Walking Audio Tour: $7.35
- Madrid Mystery Quest: Self-Guided Surreal Adventure Game: $8.30
- Madrid Essential : Self-Guided Tour created by local Official Guide: $8.31
- Museo Lazaro Galdiano Admission Ticket in Madrid: $9.06
- Manzanares River’s Story: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Madrid: $9.99
- Madrid City Tour Self guided Audio Tour on Your Phone: $12
- A local's A self-guided audio tour: $12
Typical Entertainment Prices in Chicago
Here are a few typical costs in Chicago for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:
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Sears Tower (family of 4)$102
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Aquarium for 4$118
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Water Taxi (family of 4)$22
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IMAX Movie for Two$35
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Shakespeare Play (2)$116
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Art Institute (2)$36
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U-Boat Tour (2)$8.00
Tours and Activities in Chicago
Here are a few actual costs in Chicago for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- 2 Hour Bridgeport /Stockyard Chicago Tour: $45
- 2 Hour Chatham, Chicago Tour: $45
- 2 Hour Chicago Landmarks & Lakefront E-Bike Tour: $72
- 2 Hour Chicago Pier Fireworks & Evening Segway Tour: $78
- 2 Hour Englewood, Chicago Tour: $45
- 2 Hour North Lawndale, Chicago Tour: $45
- 2 Hour Pilsen and Little Village, Chicago Tour: $45
- 2 Hour Private Chicago Soul House Tour: $65
- 2 Hour Pullman/Roseland Chicago Tour: $45
- 2 Hours Chicago Architecture Tour - Skyscrapers and Photo Ops: $89
- 2-Hour Chicago Lakefront & Museum Campus Segway Tour: $62
- 2-Hour Chicago's Chinatown History and Culture Tour: $30
For more ideas for your next trip, check out The Best Free Things to Do in Chicago, Chicago Bucket List: The Best Places to See, and The Best Museums in Chicago.
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayMadrid $22Chicago $25
Typical Alcohol Prices in Madrid
Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Madrid are as follows:
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Beer$5.79
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Drinks and Tapas (for 2)$15
Sample the Local Flavors in Madrid
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Madrid:
- Top Pub Crawl Madrid & Party: $12
- Visit to the Winery with Wine Tasting and Appetizers in Navarra: $12
- Madrid Pub Crawl: VIP Entry & Shots, Games (Kapital, Fitz, Shoko): $14
- Spanish Wine Tasting Overlooking Parque del Oeste: $26
- Pub Crawl Madrid-The Original since 2005-Shots-Fun-Clubs-Dance: $30
- Wine Tour with tasting in the Natural Park of La Mata: $38
- Wine Tasting in Madrid Experience: $55
- Madrid Royal Palace Small Group Guided Tour with Wine Tasting: $70
- Madrid Tapas and Wine Tour with a Local Guide: $74
- Rooftop Bar Crawl Madrid Experience: $77
- Spanish Wine Tasting : $90
- Wine Tasting and Flamenco Master Class in Madrid: $102
Sample the Local Flavors in Chicago
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Chicago:
- Astounding Chicago Bar Crawl: Chi-Town Showdown: $15
- Rising Stars Burlesque Revue Tickets in Chicago: $30
- Burlesque Peep Show Ticket in Chicago: $32
- Burning Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
- Chicago Local Brewery Expedition with Homemade Guacamole: $63
- Chicago Local Brewery Expedition with Homemade Guacamole: $63
- Chicago Craft Brewery Barrel Bus Tour: $100
- Craft Brewery Tour by Barrel Bus: $100
- Chicago to Milwaukee: 1-Day City Highlights w/Miller Brewery: $125
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Madrid and Chicago, we can see that Chicago is more expensive. And not only is Madrid much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Madrid is in Europe and Chicago 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 Madrid would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Madrid 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 Chicago would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chicago than you might in Madrid.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Madrid Expensive? and Is Chicago Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Madrid or Chicago?
Madrid has a larger population, and is about 10% larger than the population of Chicago. When comparing the sizes of Madrid and Chicago, 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.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.