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

Should you visit Mexico City or Aspen?

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

Should I visit Mexico City or Aspen? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Mexico City

Mexico City is a colorful, cultural, and diverse 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.

Aspen

Aspen is a outdoorsy, authentic, and charming ski town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Mexico City and Aspen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mexico City or Aspen?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Mexico City. Although Mexico City and Aspen are popular destinations, Mexico City has more sights and attractions for tourists. Mexico City is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Aspen attracts visitors for its skiing, music, resorts, hiking, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Aspen is more touristy than Mexico City and is popular for its world-class skiing, many food, film, and music festivals, and its stunning mountain hikes. Mexico City is famous for its vibrant street food scene, colorful markets, and historic architecture. It is also well known for Zócalo.

How is Mexico City different from Aspen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Mexico City or Aspen Better for Skiing?

Aspen is very popular for skiing and snowboarding. However, Mexico City is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Aspen should be on your list. Near the town, there are 4 separate ski resorts. In town you'll find Aspen Mountain, which is known for it's black-diamond runs. Aspen Highlands, a couple miles away, has a mix of slopes and is less crowded. Buttermilk attracts many freestyle skiers and Aspen Snowmass is considered one of the best family-friendly ski areas.

Mexico City is not a skiing destination.

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

Mexico City is renowned for its museums and landmarks. However, Aspen does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Mexico City on the map. 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.

Aspen does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Mexico City and Aspen offer terrific local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Aspen has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The town hosts many food festivals and there is a growing selection of diverse restaurants. In town you'll find cafes and restaurants that cater to both the local crowd and the travelers who flock to the area during peak seasons.

Is Mexico City or Aspen Better for Nightlife?

Mexico City is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Mexico City is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

The nightlife in Aspen has something for everybody. The people in Aspen know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene includes craft beer, live music, and dancing. There's a local vibe, particularly during the off-season times when the tourist crowds are less.

Is Mexico City or Aspen Better for Music?

Aspen is an excellent place to visit for its music scene. However, Mexico City is not a live music destination.

Whether you like big venues or smaller artists, Aspen has diverse options. Popular music venues in town include Silver City Mountain Saloon and Belly Up Aspen.

Mexico City is not a live music destination.

Is Mexico City or Aspen Better for Resorts?

Aspen is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Mexico City is not a resort destination.

Aspen is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Popular resorts in the area include The Little Nell, Hotel Jerome, and St. Regis Aspen.

Mexico City is not a resort destination.

Is Mexico City or Aspen Better for its Old Town?

Mexico City is a city with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Aspen does not have a historic old town.

Mexico City offers a nice historic old town area. 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.

Aspen does not have a historic old town.

Is Mexico City or Aspen Better for Hiking?

Aspen 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 Aspen. During the summer and fall seasons, hiking is a great way to explore Aspen's nearby beauty. Popular trails include the Ute Trail, the Lost Man Trail, and the famous Maroon Bells Scenic Trail.

Mexico City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mexico City or Aspen?

Mexico City is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Aspen. There are many great local shops and art galleries where you can pick interesting items or fine art.

Is Mexico City or Aspen Better for Christmas?

Aspen is very popular for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Mexico City does not offer Christmas activities.

Known for its popular Christmas activities, Aspen draws large crowds. There are a number of beautiful activities that will bring the holiday season to life in the town.

Mexico City does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Mexico City or Aspen Better for Christmas Markets?

Aspen is an excellent place to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, Mexico City does not offer Christmas markets.

Aspen is a popular destination to visit Christmas markets. The town has a charming Christmas market that is fun to explore and has around 40 vendors.

Mexico City does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Mexico City or Aspen Better for Families?

Mexico City is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Mexico City is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It's a huge city, so there are enough diverse activities to keep everyone entertained. There's even a Six Flags. Popular museums for kids include Papalote Museo del Niño and Museo de Geología. There's also the Acuario Inbursa, and make sure you check out a Lucha Libre show.

Aspen offers lots of family activities. Families that enjoy skiing together, hiking, rock climbing, and having adventures will enjoy a visit to this town. Aspen Mountain is not a great option for beginning skiers, but further away, Aspen Snowmass offers good beginner slopes.

Is Mexico City or Aspen Better for Couples?

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

Aspen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Aspen is both a popular ski destination as well as an established town. There are many great restaurants and activities that couples can enjoy and the setting is cute and very scenic, making it a beautiful and romantic destination.

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 Mexico City or Aspen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mexico City is a great destination for backpackers. However, Aspen is a ski town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Mexico City is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Aspen is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Because it is both a town and a ski resort, there are a couple of more affordable accommodation options. Even so, this is an expensive destination that isn't always ideal for budget travelers.

Is Mexico City or Aspen Better for Students?

Mexico City is a great destination for students. However, Aspen is not popular with students.

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.

Aspen is not popular with students.

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

Mexico City is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Mexico City can get you to most places easily. The city has a complex and comprehensive public transit system that includes a metro, metrobus, and local buses.

While Aspen offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are several shuttle buses around the town.

Is Mexico City or Aspen a more walkable city?

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

Aspen is a very walkable destination. The town is compact enough that it can be explored on foot. If you're planning to head into the mountains to hike, you'll likely need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Aspen or Mexico City?

How long in Mexico City or Aspen?

In either Mexico City or Aspen, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. You can fill a similar amount of time in either place. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mexico City than Aspen 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 Mexico City or Aspen?

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.

Aspen is a small town with plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

A weekend in Mexico City or Aspen?

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.

Aspen might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This ski town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Mexico City or Aspen?

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.

Even though Aspen is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

A week in Mexico City or Aspen?

You'll find food and shopping around the colorful 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.

Since Aspen is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mexico City and Aspen, we can see that Aspen is more expensive. And not only is Mexico City much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Mexico City would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Mexico City 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 Aspen would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Aspen than you might in Mexico City.

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

Which is Bigger, Mexico City or Aspen?

Mexico City has a larger population, and is about 1960 times larger than the population of Aspen. When comparing the sizes of Mexico City and Aspen, 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.