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

Should you visit Mexico City or Flagstaff?

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

Should I visit Mexico City or Flagstaff? 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.

Flagstaff

Flagstaff is a adventurous , picturesque, and active city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Mexico City and Flagstaff: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mexico City or Flagstaff?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Mexico City than Flagstaff. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Mexico City is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Flagstaff attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Flagstaff is more touristy than Mexico City and is popular for its nearby craters and volcanic caves as well as its location along the historic Route 66. 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 Flagstaff?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Flagstaff 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 Flagstaff?

Mexico City is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Flagstaff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Flagstaff is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Lowell Observatory is a highlight for many visitors, especially those who are fascinated by space. There's also the Museum of Northern Arizona, the Pioneer Museum, and Fort Tuthill Military History Museum.

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

Mexico City is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Flagstaff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Mexico City have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city food scene is as diverse as the population itself. There are countless ways to experience the amazing street food, but there are also world class chefs working in award winning restaurants. Make sure you try the chilaquiles, tacos al pastor, and chiles en nogada.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Flagstaff. The food scene is diverse and growing. There's a focus on local recipes and ingredients. You'll also find many casual and family-friendly restaurants. American cuisine is common, but you'll also find burritos, Indian curries, and frittatas.

Is Mexico City or Flagstaff Better for Nightlife?

Mexico City is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Flagstaff is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Mexico City is a world class party destination. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Flagstaff has a few options to choose from. You'll find a range of bars and cocktail lounges around town that come to life in the evening hours.

Is Mexico City or Flagstaff Better for its Old Town?

Mexico City is a city with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Flagstaff 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.

Flagstaff does not have a historic old town.

Is Mexico City or Flagstaff Better for Hiking?

Flagstaff is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Mexico City is not a hiking destination.

People visit Flagstaff specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Nearby you'll find world class hikes through surreal landscapes and diverse environments. The area is filled with desert landscapes and varied rock formations that are best explored on foot. Trails range in length and skill level, but whatever your ability, the hiking in the area is among the best.

Mexico City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mexico City or Flagstaff?

Mexico City is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Flagstaff 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Flagstaff. Located along historic Route 66, you'll find many shops that capture the city's history, particularly in the Southside Historic District. The town also has farmer's markets as well as shopping centers and large malls.

Is Mexico City or Flagstaff Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Mexico City or Flagstaff.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Mexico 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.

Flagstaff is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city is filled with outdoor activities for kids like ropes courses and adventure parks. Kids will also enjoy climbing around the Lava River Cave, visiting Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, or hiking through the many diverse landscapes in the area. There are also museums that educate visitors on the city's history as well as Lowell Observatory, which will intrigue all the space enthusiasts among us.

Is Mexico City or Flagstaff Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Mexico City and Flagstaff 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.

Flagstaff is a nice destination for couples. Hiking and outdoor adventure sports make this city a good destination for couples who enjoy active living. There are many parks that you can visit as well as hiking trails and unique natural settings.

Is Mexico City or Flagstaff Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mexico City and Flagstaff are both excellent destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Mexico City. It's a big city with a wonderful atmosphere and many hostels. Backpackers who want to experience the culture, food, and personality of Mexico will love a visit here.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Flagstaff. There are campgrounds nearby as well as tons of nature parks and countless hiking trails in the area.

Is Mexico City or Flagstaff Better for Students?

Mexico City is well known for students. However, Flagstaff 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.

Flagstaff is not popular with students.

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

Mexico City is well known for its public transit. However, Flagstaff is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Mexico City offers a very effecient public transportation network. The city has a complex and comprehensive public transit system that includes a metro, metrobus, and local buses.

Public transit is mostly limited in Flagstaff. The Mountain Line offers eight routes through town.

Is Mexico City or Flagstaff a more walkable city?

Flagstaff is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Mexico City is lacking in options for its walkability.

Flagstaff is a somewhat walkable city. The downtown is compact and walkable, but you'll really want to have a car to explore the nearby hiking trails and natural 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 Mexico City Worth Visiting? and Is Flagstaff Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Flagstaff or Mexico City?

How long in Mexico City or Flagstaff?

It's fun to spend time in either Mexico City or Flagstaff. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Mexico City due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mexico City, and 2-4 days is enough time in Flagstaff.

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

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

People visit Mexico City because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the picturesque city of Flagstaff. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the hiking. 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 Flagstaff?

People visit Mexico City because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the active destination of Flagstaff. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

Five days in Mexico City or Flagstaff?

People visit Mexico City because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

The picturesque city of Flagstaff offers shopping and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Mexico City or Flagstaff?

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

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Flagstaff. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. 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 Contiki Tours to United States of America, and The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mexico City and Flagstaff, we can see that Mexico City is more expensive. And not only is Flagstaff much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Flagstaff would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Flagstaff 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 Flagstaff.

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 Flagstaff Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Mexico City or Flagstaff?

Mexico City has a larger population, and is about 200 times larger than the population of Flagstaff. When comparing the sizes of Mexico City and Flagstaff, 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.