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

Should you visit Munich or Mexico City?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Munich or Mexico City, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Munich

Munich is a economically thriving, bustling, and high energy 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.

Mexico City

Mexico City is a dynamic, colorful, 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.

Munich and Mexico City: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
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


Is there more to do in Munich or Mexico City?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Munich than Mexico City. While Mexico City is larger than Munich, Munich has more sights and attractions for tourists. Munich is very popular for its music, while Mexico City attracts visitors for its museums, food, and historical sights. Munich is more touristy than Mexico City and is popular for its beer halls (particularly during Oktoberfest), its historic buildings and its castles. It is also well known for The Nymphenburg Palace. Mexico City is famous for its vibrant street food scene, colorful markets, and historic architecture.

How is Munich different from Mexico City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Munich
Mexico City

Mexico City is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Munich 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Munich. Famous sights include the Old Town Hall in Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Munich Residenz.


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

Munich
Mexico City

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

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Mexico City is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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 Munich. Bavaria has some of the best food in Germany. Popular dishes include schnitzel, weisswurst and spätzel.

Is Munich or Mexico City Better for Nightlife?

Munich
Mexico City

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Munich and Mexico City.

Munich is a world class party destination. The city has a young and vibrant population that keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are many bars and clubs around town, but the city is also famous for Oktoberfest during the months of September and October.

Mexico City is a must-see 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.

Is Munich or Mexico City Better for Music?

Munich
Mexico City

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

Munich has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city is known for its music festivals, large concerts, and small venues that are diverse enough that there is something for everyone.

Mexico City is not a live music destination.


Is Munich or Mexico City Better for its Old Town?

Munich
Mexico City

Mexico City is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Munich 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.

Munich does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Munich or Mexico City?

Munich
Mexico City

Shopping is a popular activity in both Mexico City and Munich.

Munich is a world class destination for shoppers. There are many pedestrian areas and shopping centers where you can find everything from luxury items to bargain finds.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Mexico City. 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.

Is Munich or Mexico City Better for Families?

Munich
Mexico City

Munich and Mexico City are both very good destinations for the whole family.

Munich is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Popular kid activities include going to the top of Stadium Roof at Olympic Park, checking out the movie sets at Filmstadt, and taking a paddle boat ride in the city park.

Mexico City is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Munich or Mexico City Better for Couples?

Munich
Mexico City

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

Munich makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples enjoy exploring the palaces around the city, visiting the Roman baths at Müller's Volksbad, and checking out the many great restaurants around town.

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 Munich or Mexico City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Munich
Mexico City

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

A large number of backpackers visit Munich, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city has many fun hostels that often host events and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and take advantage of the nightlife around town.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Is Munich or Mexico City Better for Students?

Munich
Mexico City

Munich 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 Munich. The city is an economic hub for both Germany and Europe, so it attracts employees from around the world. There are many wonderful university programs, including a great business school in town. The city's multicultural setting makes it great for international students.

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


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

Munich
Mexico City

Munich 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.

Munich has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. Transit options include a subway (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses.

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 Munich or Mexico City a more walkable city?

Munich
Mexico City

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

Munich is a very walkable destination. While walking tours are a great way to explore, the city is quite large so you'll want to take public transit as well.

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

Should I spend more time in Mexico City or Munich?

How long in Munich or Mexico City?

In either Munich or Mexico City, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Munich has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Munich than Mexico City. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Munich, and 3-5 days is enough time in Mexico City.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Munich than Mexico City 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 Munich.


  • How many days in Munich or Mexico City? Ideal Length of Stay
    Munich 2-5 
    Mexico City 3-5

One day in Munich or Mexico City?

Munich is a high energy city where you can fill many days. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the big city destination of Mexico City. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Munich or Mexico City?

Munich is a economically thriving big city where you can fill many days. 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.

Mexico City 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 Munich or Mexico City?

Munich is a economically thriving city where you can fill many days. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mexico City. 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 Munich or Mexico City?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting Munich. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the colorful big city of Mexico City. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, The Best Walking Tours in Germany, The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico.


Which place is cheaper, Mexico City or Munich?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Munich is €148, while the average daily cost in Mexico City is €200. 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 Munich and Mexico City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Munich 89
    Mexico City 39
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Munich 178
    Mexico City 78
Compare Hotels in Munich and Mexico City

Looking for a hotel in Munich or Mexico City? 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 Munich


Hotels in Mexico City


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: Munich Hotel Prices and Mexico City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Munich 19
    Mexico City 12
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Munich

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


  • Single Zone Trip on Subway
    2.30
  • Inner District Subway Day Pass
    5.20
  • City transport day ticket
    11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Munich

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Munich:

  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Munich APT-HTL (MUC): $177
  • Transfer in private vehicle from Munich Airport (MUC)- Munich City: $74
  • Transfer Munich to Kaprun,Zell am See,Flachau,Stubai,Kitzbuhel,Innsbruck & Other: $259
  • Skip-the-line Nymphenburg Palace Guided Tour with Transfers: $235
  • Skip-the-line Hellabrunn Zoo in Munich with Transfers: $132
  • Salzburg to Munich Transfer: $266
  • Roundtrip Transfer Private Vehicle Munich Airport (MUC) - Munich City: $155
  • Private transfer from Munich to Vienna: $927
  • Private transfer from Munich to Prague: $703
  • Private arrival transfer Munich Airport to Munich Hotels: $245
  • Private arrival OR departure transfer from/to Munich airport: $291
  • Private Transfer: Munich to Munich International Airport (MUC): $116

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Mexico City

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


  • Metro
    1.13
  • Uber Ride
    3.94

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: $24
  • Airport Transfer: Mexico Airport MEX to Mexico by Business Car: $86
  • Airport Transfer: Mexico Airport MEX to Mexico by Luxury SUV/Van: $91
  • Airport Transfer: Mexico to Mexico Airport MEX by Business Car: $86
  • Airport Transfer: Mexico to Mexico Airport MEX by Luxury SUV/Van: $91
  • Arrival Transfer: Mexico Airport MEX to Mexico by Business Car: $86
  • Arrival Transfer: Mexico Airport MEX to Mexico by Luxury SUV: $91
  • Departure Transfer: Mexico to Mexico Airport MEX by Luxury SUV: $91
  • International Airport Felipe Angeles(NLU) - Private Transfer To/from Mexico City: $104
  • Mexico Airport (MEX) Cuernavaca Thermal Resorts Arrival Transfer: $38
  • Mexico Airport (MEX) to Chignahuapan Resorts-Round-Trip Transfer: $98
  • Mexico Airport (MEX) to Cuernavaca Thermal Round-Trip Transfer: $76

Is it cheaper to fly into Munich or Mexico City?

Prices for flights to both Mexico City and Munich 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
    Munich 27
    Mexico City 26
Typical Food Prices in Munich

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


  • Bratwurst
    5.00
  • Leberkässemmeln (Veal & Pork Sandwich)
    1.95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Munich

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Munich.

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
  • Viktualienmarkt Gourmet Food Tour: $46
  • Munich Food Tour with Beer Tasting: $47
  • Private Salzburg History & Food Tour with Munich train add-on: $55
  • 6 gears dinner show menu: $99
  • Original Munich Christmas Market Food Tour - all tastings included: $136
  • Lunch Like a Local: Munich's ORIGINAL Viktualienmarkt Food Tour: $141
  • Private Full Day Bavarian Beer and Food Tour in Munich: $209
  • Private - Viktualienmarkt Food Tour and Beyond - best Munich tastings: $229
  • Munich Food Tour & Food Market with German Delicacies: $265

Typical Food Prices in Mexico City

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


  • Lunch for Two
    12
  • Coffee and Snacks
    4.39
  • Dinner for 2
    26

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:

  • Veracruz and Boca del Rio Food Tour with Mangroves Boat Trip: $50
  • Virtual Mexican Cooking Class (private and personalized): $50
  • Local Markets & Food Tour in Mexico City: $50
  • Uruapan Food Tour: $60
  • Muchos moles: Multi-variety mole cooking class and feast: $70
  • Mexico City Vegan & Veggie Market Explorer plus Cooking Lesson: $72
  • Street Food Tour with Friends: $75
  • La Roma Authentic Downtown Food Tour: Tacos and Local Flavors: $78
  • Food Tour with Ride an Electric Bike in Mexico: $80
  • Flamenco Tablao Live Show & dinner: $83
  • Flamenco Live Show and Dinner in Mexico City: $83
  • Mexico City Origins: Archeology, History, Art & Food Tour: $85

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Munich 29
    Mexico City 14
Typical Entertainment Prices in Munich

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


  • Schack Gallery Entrance
    4.00
  • Munich Zoo Entrance
    9.00
  • Pub Crawl Munich Tour
    14
  • Neuschwanstein Castle (2)
    24

Tours and Activities in Munich

Here are a few actual costs in Munich for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 2 Hours VIP Private Segway Tour: $91
  • 2-hour Private Walking Tour in Munich: $214
  • 5 Top Churches in Munich Private Walking Tour : $210
  • 5 Top Churches in Munich Private Walking Tour : $210
  • A Tour inside Munich's Justizpalast: $23
  • Albert Einstein Private Walking Tour in Old Town Munich: $202
  • Bavarian Beer and Food Evening Tour in Munich: $68
  • Bavarian Food Walking Tour from Munich : $47
  • Bayern Munich Tour (City, Land, Bazaar, Historical, Taste): $266
  • Bayern Tour (München Nürnberg Erlangen Würzburg Bamberg): $533
  • Berchtesgaden and Eagle's Nest Day Tour from Munich: $71
  • Best of Munich - Private Tour: $425

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: $4.68
  • Franz Mayer Museum Admission Ticket: $5.85
  • Double Decker Bus Night Tour: $5.85
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour-Moctezuma and the Zocalo:The Aztec Empire : $6.99
  • Private Tour to the Capuchin Convent Chapel made by Luis Barragan : $8.00
  • Memory and Tolerance Museum Entry Ticket: $8.19
  • Mexico City (Coyoacan) City Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.78
  • Mexico City (Historic Centre) City Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.78
  • Mexico City (Historic Centre) Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Tour: $8.95
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Night Tour in a Double Decker Bus: $12
  • Templo Mayor of Mexico City Skip-the-Line Ticket: $12

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Munich 37
    Mexico City 19
Typical Alcohol Prices in Munich

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Munich:


  • Hofbrauhaus
    12

Sample the Local Flavors in Munich

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

  • Exclusive Brewery Tour & Tasting of 4 Organic Beers: $28
  • Munich's Original Pub Crawl: $31
  • English Guided Brewery Tour in Munich beertasting 4 beers: $37
  • Cheese & Wine tasting: $95
  • The ORIGINAL Munich Christmas Market Festive Wine Tour -with food: $141
  • Private Wine Tasting Tour in Munich with a Wine Expert: $287
  • Private Wine Tasting Tour in Munich with a Wine Expert: $294
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $400
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $400

Sample the Local Flavors in Mexico City

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

  • Mexico City Pub Crawl: $27
  • CDMX Pub Crawl: Mexico City Bar Crawl: $29
  • Best Bar Crawl at Downtown: $49
  • Nightly Historic Center From Above© Rooftop Bar Crawl +Taco Snack: $129
  • 2 Hours Private Mexican Wine Tasting in Polanco: $155
  • Third Largest Monolith in the World:Bernal with wine tasting: $235
  • Cavas Freixenet Wine Tour from Mexico City: $255


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

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


Which is Bigger, Munich or Mexico City?

Mexico City has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Munich. When comparing the sizes of Munich and Mexico City, 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.