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

Should you visit Mexico City or Chicago?

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

Should I visit Mexico City or Chicago? 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 vibrant, dynamic, and colorful 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 Mexico City travel costs.

Chicago

Chicago is a cosmopolitan, diverse, and vibrant city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Chicago offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the nightlife, live music, and food. See Chicago travel costs.

Mexico City and Chicago: Pros and Cons

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
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
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower)


Is there more to do in Mexico City or Chicago?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Chicago than Mexico City. While Mexico City is larger than Chicago, Chicago has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chicago is very popular for its theatre productions, music, beaches, christmas markets, and impressive beauty, while Mexico City attracts visitors for its historical sights. Chicago is more touristy than Mexico City and is popular for its thriving sports scene, its iconic local cuisine, and its world class shopping at the Magnificent Mile. It is also well known for The Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower). Mexico City is famous for its vibrant street food scene, colorful markets, and historic architecture.

How is Mexico City different from Chicago?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Mexico City
Chicago

You'll find a number of world-class museums and attractions in both Chicago and Mexico City.

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.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Chicago that are not to be missed. 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).


Is Mexico City or Chicago Better for Theater?

Mexico City
Chicago

Chicago is very popular for its shows and theatre. However, Mexico City is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in Chicago draw crowds from around the world. 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.

Mexico City is not a theatre destination.

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

Mexico City
Chicago

Both Mexico City and Chicago offer world-class 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.

Chicago has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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 Mexico City or Chicago Better for Nightlife?

Mexico City
Chicago

Both Mexico City and Chicago have world-class vibes after the sun sets.

Mexico City is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

People head to Chicago just to party. 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.


Is Mexico City or Chicago Better for Music?

Mexico City
Chicago

Chicago is very popular for its music scene. However, Mexico City is not a live music destination.

Chicago has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.

Mexico City is not a live music destination.

Is Mexico City or Chicago Better for Beaches?

Mexico City
Chicago

Chicago is a popular place for the beach. However, Mexico City is not a beach destination.

Chicago is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Mexico City is not a beach destination.

Is Mexico City or Chicago Better for its Old Town?

Mexico City
Chicago

Mexico City is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Chicago 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.

Chicago does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Mexico City or Chicago?

Mexico City
Chicago

Shoppers can find a variety of world-class stores in both Mexico City and Chicago.

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.

Chicago is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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 Mexico City or Chicago More Beautiful?

Mexico City
Chicago

Chicago is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Mexico City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Chicago offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The water makes this city a truly unique place to explore, and the world class architecture is not to be missed.

Mexico City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Mexico City or Chicago Better for Families?

Mexico City
Chicago

Chicago 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, Chicago is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

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 Mexico City or Chicago Better for Couples?

Mexico City
Chicago

With fun activities for couples, both Mexico City and Chicago make for a nice place to visit.

Mexico City is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

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 Mexico City or Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mexico City
Chicago

Mexico City is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

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 Mexico City or Chicago Better for Students?

Mexico City
Chicago

Chicago 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 Chicago. 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.

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


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

Mexico City
Chicago

Chicago 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.

Chicago has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

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 Mexico City or Chicago a more walkable city?

Mexico City
Chicago

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

Chicago is a very walkable destination. The city has many restaurants, sights, and hotels that are easily accessible 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 Mexico City Worth Visiting? and Is Chicago Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chicago or Mexico City?

How long in Mexico City or Chicago?

In either Mexico City 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 Mexico City. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Chicago than Mexico City. 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 Mexico City. 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.


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

One day in Mexico City or Chicago?

Because Mexico City 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the vibrant city of Chicago. 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 Chicago?

Because Mexico City 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. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Visitors enjoy the live music and food when visiting the vibrant big city of Chicago. 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.

Five days in Mexico City or Chicago?

Mexico City 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 Mexico City has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the diverse city of Chicago. 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 Chicago?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mexico City. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Mexico City. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

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


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Mexico, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.


Which place is cheaper, Chicago or Mexico City?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Mexico City Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Chicago Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Mexico City $189
    Chicago $323

The average daily cost (per person) in Mexico City is $189, 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 Mexico City and Chicago in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mexico City $34
    Chicago $198
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mexico City $68
    Chicago $396
Compare Hotels in Mexico City and Chicago

Looking for a hotel in Mexico City 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.

Hotels in Mexico City


Hotels in Chicago


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: Mexico City Hotel Prices and Chicago Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mexico City $11
    Chicago $37
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Mexico City

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


  • Metro
    $0.97
  • Uber Ride
    $3.39

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Mexico City

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

  • Aguascalientes to Aguascalientes Airport (AGU) Departure Transfer: $56
  • Airport Transfer: Mexico Airport MEX to Mexico by Luxury SUV: $94
  • Airport Transfer: Mexico to Mexico Airport MEX by Business Car: $83
  • Airport Transfer: Mexico to Mexico Airport MEX by Luxury SUV: $94
  • Airport Transfer: Mexico to Mexico Airport NLU by Luxury SUV: $187
  • Arrival Transfer: Mexico Airport NLU to Mexico by Luxury SUV: $187
  • CDMX: Teotihuacan Hot Air Balloon with Transfers & Breakfast: $139
  • Ciudad de México Private Transfer from City to Airport (MEX): $17
  • Departure Transfer: Mexico to Mexico Airport MEX by Luxury SUV: $94
  • From Grutas de Tolantongo Day Trip w/ Transfer: $88
  • Mexico Airport (MEX) Cuernavaca Thermal Resorts Arrival Transfer: $126
  • Mexico Airport (MEX) to Chignahuapan Resorts-Round-Trip Transfer: $295

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Chicago

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


  • Parking
    $19
  • Taxi Ride
    $10
  • Taxi from Airport
    $45

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Chicago

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Chicago:

  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer in Chicago APT-HTL (ORD) , (MDW): $126
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer in Chicago APT-HTL (ORD) , (MDW): $128
  • SUV transfer from downtown Chicago to O'hare Midway Airport: $192
  • Private Transfer: Midway Airport MDW to Chicago by Luxury SUV: $167
  • Private Transfer in Chicago (ORD/MDW): $130
  • Private Transfer from Chicago City to Chicago Airport (ORD): $61
  • Private Transfer from Chicago City to Chicago (ORD) Airport: $295
  • Private Transfer from Chicago City to Chicago (MDW) Airport: $139
  • Private Transfer from Chicago (ORD) Airport to Chicago City: $294
  • Private Transfer from Chicago (MDW) Airport to Chicago City: $139
  • Private Transfer ORD Airport to Chicago / Milwaukee / Oak Brook: $46
  • Private Transfer Chicago to Chicago Airport by Luxury Car or SUV: $87

Is it cheaper to fly into Mexico City or Chicago?

Prices for flights to both Chicago and Mexico City 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
    Mexico City $38
    Chicago $85
Typical Food Prices in Mexico City

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


  • Lunch for Two
    $11
  • Coffee and Snacks
    $3.77
  • Dinner for 2
    $22

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:

  • Private Mexico City Street Food Tour - Best Rated: $29
  • Private Street Food Tour Mexico City - Best rated : $35
  • Art and Food Tour with Lunch: $49
  • Veracruz and Boca del Rio Food Tour with Mangroves Boat Trip: $50
  • Local Markets & Food Tour in Mexico City: $53
  • 3 Hours Food Tour Best Vegan Tacos in Mexico City: $55
  • Tortilla Crawl: Food Tour in Mexico City: $55
  • Private Half-Day Traditional Markets Street Food Tour in Mexico City: $57
  • Secret Food Tour: Mexico City Old Town: $60
  • Mexico City Food Tour: Historic Center, Heritage on a Plate: $63
  • Mexico City Food Tour in Coyoacán: Bohemian Bites & Sites: $68
  • Private Market Tour & Authentic Mexican Cooking with Fernanda: $68

Typical Food Prices in Chicago

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Chicago:


  • Dinner for 1
    $24
  • 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.

  • Chicago : Hands-on Cooking Classes With Local Chef: $55
  • Deep Dish Cooking Class at Pizzeria Uno in Chicago: $59
  • Bucktown Pizza Crawl in Chicago: $59
  • Fulton Market Delicious Donut Adventure and Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Downtown Pizza Guided Walking Tour with Tastings: $73
  • Lake Michigan Gourmet Brunch/Lunch/Dinner Cruise: $77
  • Downtown Family Food Tour by Bike with Sightseeing: $80
  • Chicago Murder Mystery Food Tour: $82
  • Secret Food Tour: $86
  • Chicago Pizza Tour: $89
  • Chicago Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $89
  • Chicago Half-Day Walking Food Tour with Free Bike or Kayak Rental: $99

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mexico City $12
    Chicago $47

Tours and Activities in Mexico City

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

  • MUCHO Museum of Chocolate Entrance Ticket: $3.89
  • Franz Mayer Museum Regular Admission Ticket: $4.87
  • The best tour of the historic center-Guided by a Storyteller: $5.00
  • Bastards of Mexico: Unfiltered Tour of the Historic Center: $5.00
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour - Mexico for Beginners: $6.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour-Moctezuma and the Zocalo:The Aztec Empire : $6.99
  • Memory and Tolerance Museum Entry Ticket: $7.30
  • Double Decker Bus Night Tour: $7.30
  • Self Guided Walking Tour of Teotihuacan Pyramids (no ticket): $7.34
  • La Roma's Famous Sights and Local Lore: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Mexico City (Coyoacan) Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $9.01
  • Night City Tour in a Double Decker Bus: $9.74

Typical Entertainment Prices in Chicago

Here are a few typical costs in Chicago for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Sears Tower (family of 4)
    $102
  • Aquarium for 4
    $118
  • Water Taxi (family of 4)
    $22
  • IMAX Movie for Two
    $35
  • Shakespeare Play (2)
    $116
  • Art Institute (2)
    $36
  • 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:

  • Field Museum of Natural History Early Access Ticket : $73
  • Windy City Ghosts: Hauntings of Chicago Walking Tour: $32
  • 2 Hour Magnificent Chicago Tour with Photos and Popcorn: $35
  • 2 Hour Private Chicago Soul House Tour: $65
  • 2-Hour Chicago Lakefront and Museum Campus Segway Tour: $65
  • 2-Hour Guided Segway Tour of Chicago: $65
  • 3 Hours Chicago Architecture Tour - Skyscrapers and Photo Ops: $135
  • 360 Chicago Observation Deck Sip and View Ticket: $44
  • A Storied Neighborhood: A Self-Guided Audio Tour with Bill Ayers: $5.40
  • African American Heritage Tour of Chicago : $70
  • Amazing Lakefront Segway Tour of Chicago: $65
  • Architectural and Historical Private Tour in Downtown Chicago: $199

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
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mexico City $17
    Chicago $25

Sample the Local Flavors in Mexico City

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

  • Guided Pub Crawl with Party Games: $21
  • Mexico City Pub Crawl: $21
  • Best Bar Crawl at Downtown: $49
  • Polanco: Private Wine Tasting in with Cheese: $78
  • Zona Rosa Pub Crawl Experience: $84
  • Teotihuacan´s Best Balloon Flight: Pyramids and Brewery tours : $120
  • Teotihuacan Full Day: Balloon flight+Pyramids Tour and Craft Brewery: $229

Sample the Local Flavors in Chicago

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

  • Oktoberfest Walking Brewery Tour in Malt Row: $25
  • Oktoberfest Walking Brewery Tour in Logan Square: $25
  • Walking tour to Chicago dive bars: $41
  • Chicago Craft Brewery Barrel Bus Tour: $100
  • Craft Brewery Tour by Barrel Bus: $100
  • Milwaukee Adventures and Miller Brewery Day Trip from Chicago: $125
  • Milwaukee Harley-Davidson Museum & Brewery Day Tour: $125


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mexico City and Chicago, we can see that Chicago 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 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 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 Chicago Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Mexico City or Chicago?

Mexico City has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Chicago. When comparing the sizes of Mexico City 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.