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

Should you visit Mexico City or Monterey?

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

Should I visit Mexico City or Monterey? 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 cultural, diverse, and vibrant city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Monterey

Monterey is a nature-oriented, laid back, and relaxing city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Mexico City and Monterey: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mexico City or Monterey?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Mexico City. Although Mexico City and Monterey are popular destinations, Mexico City has more sights and attractions for tourists. Mexico City is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Monterey attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling and beaches. Monterey is more touristy than Mexico City and is known for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. 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 Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Mexico City is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Monterey offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

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

Mexico City is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Mexico City, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Monterey makes for a great culinary experience. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

Is Mexico City or Monterey Better for Nightlife?

Mexico City is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Mexico City has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Monterey is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

Is Mexico City or Monterey Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Monterey is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Mexico City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Monterey has a few good snorkeling spots. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Mexico City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mexico City or Monterey Better for Beaches?

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

Monterey is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Mexico City is not a beach destination.

Is Mexico City or Monterey Better for its Old Town?

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

Mexico City has an old town worth visiting. 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.

Monterey does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Mexico City or Monterey?

Mexico City is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

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.

Monterey is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

Is Mexico City or Monterey Better for Families?

Monterey 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, Monterey is a very family-friendly destination. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

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 Monterey Better for Couples?

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

Monterey makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

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 Monterey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mexico City is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Monterey. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

Is Mexico City or Monterey Better for Students?

Mexico City is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Monterey is not popular with students.

Many students visit Mexico City. International students love the art, architecture, food, and culture that this colorful city has to offer.

Monterey is not popular with students.

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

Mexico City is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Monterey is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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 generally limited in Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.

Is Mexico City or Monterey a more walkable city?

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

Monterey is a very walkable destination. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around 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 Monterey Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Monterey or Mexico City?

How long in Mexico City or Monterey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Mexico City and Monterey. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Mexico City than in Monterey. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mexico City, and 1-3 days is enough time in Monterey.

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

Couples should spend more time in Monterey than Mexico City. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Monterey 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 Monterey 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 Monterey?

Mexico City is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the relaxing city of Monterey. 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.

A weekend in Mexico City or Monterey?

Mexico City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the relaxing destination of Monterey. 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 Monterey?

Mexico City is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Mexico City, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The nature-oriented city of Monterey offers museums and nightlife. 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 Monterey?

Mexico City is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Monterey. 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 2-Week Tours in Mexico, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.

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

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 Monterey Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Mexico City or Monterey?

Mexico City has a larger population, and is about 370 times larger than the population of Monterey. When comparing the sizes of Mexico City and Monterey, 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.