A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Auckland vs. Playa del Carmen for Nightlife, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Auckland or Playa del Carmen?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Auckland and Playa del Carmen can help you decide which place is right for you.

Auckland

Auckland is a thrill-seeking, cosmopolitan , and adventurous city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Auckland travel costs.

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is a stunning, vibrant, and picture-perfect town. The beauty of Playa del Carmen is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Playa del Carmen travel costs.

Auckland and Playa del Carmen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Auckland or Playa del Carmen?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Auckland than Playa del Carmen, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Auckland is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, shopping, and big city activities, while Playa del Carmen is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Playa del Carmen is more touristy than Auckland and is popular for its coral reefs, luxury resorts, and white sand beaches. Auckland is popular for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment. It is also home to the Sky Tower.

How is Auckland different from Playa del Carmen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Playa del Carmen and Auckland. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Auckland or Playa del Carmen?

Auckland is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Playa del Carmen is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

Auckland offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The waterfront is filled with sights for tourists, and many of the city's attractions are geared towards thrill seekers. The Sky Tower is a popular landmark with its Sky Walk and Sky Jump. There are also many thrilling experiences that you can have along the Harbour Bridge. For museums, head to the New Zealand Maritime Museum, the Auckland Art Gallery, or the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

While most people don't head to Playa del Carmen specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. If you're willing to head out of town, there are world class Mayan ruins not far away, but if you want to hang out near town, then you'll likely spend most of your time enjoying outdoor water activities.

Is the Food Better in Auckland or Playa del Carmen? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Auckland is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Auckland is an experience not to be missed. The city has a diverse selection of restaurants, but you'll also find many places that highlight local ingredients such as seafood and lamb. You'll often find the standard dishes such as fish and chips, oysters, and green-lipped mussels on the menus.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Playa del Carmen. You'll find a good number of overpriced tourist restaurants in the area, but if you do some research you'll also find amazing and authentic Mexican food as well. There is everything from food trucks to fine dining that offer ceviche, tacos, or burritos. There are also plenty of places to grab pizza or burgers.

Is Auckland or Playa del Carmen Better for Nightlife?

Playa del Carmen is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Playa del Carmen is a world class party destination. It rivals some of the country's best nightlife and you'll find plenty of venues to choose from, ranging from dive bars to swanky cocktail lounges. Head to the main walking street for some of the most active venues.

The people in Auckland know how to have a good time. The city has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and there are many bars and clubs that you can explore in the evening. Some of the best nightlife options are found in the vibrant Britomart precinct and around the trendy Ponsonby Road. Other popular areas include Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter.

Is Auckland or Playa del Carmen Better for Resorts?

Playa del Carmen is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Auckland is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Playa del Carmen is a perfect choice. You'll find a huge number of luxury resorts in the area, particularly along the beach. There are fancy pools and beachfront properties that offer the perfect vacation retreat.

Auckland is not a resort destination.

Is Auckland or Playa del Carmen Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Playa del Carmen is a must-visit destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Auckland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Playa del Carmen is not to be missed. There's not a lot to see right off of the beach, but there are plenty of snorkeling excursions in the area that take you to beautiful reefs. The diving is world class as well and you'll find wonderful reefs, bull sharks, and hidden gems.

Auckland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Auckland or Playa del Carmen Better for Beaches?

Playa del Carmen is a must-visit destination for the beach. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

With world-famous beaches, Playa del Carmen is a very popular vacation destination. The area is filled with world class beaches, long stretches of white sand, and beautiful blue water. You might even stumble across a sea turtle or two while you're swimming.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Auckland. You don't have to head too far from the city to find some impressive beaches that are diverse and beautiful. There are beaches that are secluded and private as well as more lively beaches with all of the amenities and activities that you might want.

Is Auckland or Playa del Carmen Better for Hiking?

You'll find good hiking in both Auckland and Playa del Carmen.

Many people include a hike when visiting Auckland. Locals love to get outdoors, and you'll find many local hikes in the area. There are easy paths that are family-friendly and perfect for a stroll, as well as longer stretches that present more of a challenge.

Playa del Carmen has hiking trails worth exploring. There are well marked trails in the area that get you out in nature or take you along the coastline.

Is the Shopping Better in Auckland or Playa del Carmen?

Auckland is a great destination for its shopping areas. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Auckland. The city centre is cosmopolitan and full of diverse shopping venues that sell international brands as well as local designers. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Britomart, High Street, and Queen Street.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Playa del Carmen. Much of the shopping is geared towards the tourists, but you'll find some local items, interesting galleries, and colorful markets to explore.

Is Auckland or Playa del Carmen More Beautiful?

Playa del Carmen is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Playa del Carmen is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. From beautiful beaches to inland jungles, this is a truly stunning destination.

Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Auckland or Playa del Carmen Better for Families?

Playa del Carmen is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Playa del Carmen is one of the most popular family destinations. From eco parks to kid-friendly snorkeling opportunities, there are many activities for kids of all ages. There are also adventure parks and playgrounds that are perfect for a fun afternoon.

Auckland is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There's a big focus on getting kids outside in the city, so you'll find many outdoor parks and play spaces. Popular activities for families include visiting the Huia Lodge Discovery Centre, going to the Museum of Transport and Technology, and wandering through the botanical garden.

Is Auckland or Playa del Carmen Better for Couples?

Playa del Carmen is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Playa del Carmen has plenty to offer. Beautiful beaches and tropical jungles make this a paradise honeymoon destination. You'll find luxury resorts, fine dining restaurants, and countless opportunities to enjoy the stunning setting. Take a sunset cruise of explore one of the many natural wonders in the area.

Couples visit Auckland frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many romantic restaurants in the city, as well as spas, cocktail bars, and evening venues. Couples will also enjoy one of the many thrill-seeking activities that New Zealand is famous for.

Is Auckland or Playa del Carmen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Auckland is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Auckland is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Auckland is high on many backpackers' wish list, and usually they pass through the city at some point during their trip. You'll find a number of hostels in the city that are perfect for socializing and saving money.

Playa del Carmen is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's filled with tourists staying at luxury resorts, but you'll also find a couple of hostels tucked away in town. If you're interesting in scuba diving, then it's well worth the trip.

Is Auckland or Playa del Carmen Better for Students?

Auckland is a great destination for students. However, Playa del Carmen is not popular with students.

Auckland is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. Some of the country's best universities are found in the city, many of which are popular with international students.

Playa del Carmen is not popular with students.

Is Auckland or Playa del Carmen Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find good public transit in both Auckland and Playa del Carmen.

Auckland has some public transit options. There's a mishmash of different public transit options, and trips often include a variety of modes of transport. In the city you'll find ferries, trains, and buses to help you get around.

You'll find some public transit in Playa del Carmen, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses, collectivos and the ADO bus.

Is Auckland or Playa del Carmen a more walkable city?

Playa del Carmen is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. However, Auckland is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Playa del Carmen. It's a compact and very walkable town. La Quinta is the main strip and it's pedestrian-only.

Auckland is generally not very walkable. It is a very car-centric city and it can be challenging to explore on foot alone.

For even more information, also check out Is Auckland Worth Visiting? and Is Playa del Carmen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Playa del Carmen or Auckland?

How long in Auckland or Playa del Carmen?

Both Auckland and Playa del Carmen have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Playa del Carmen than in Auckland. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Auckland, and 3-7 days is enough time in Playa del Carmen.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Auckland than Playa del Carmen 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 Auckland.

One day in Auckland or Playa del Carmen?

People visit Auckland because there is so much to do. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The beautiful town of Playa del Carmen offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

A weekend in Auckland or Playa del Carmen?

People visit Auckland because there is so much to do. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Playa del Carmen is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Five days in Auckland or Playa del Carmen?

Auckland is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

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

A week in Auckland or Playa del Carmen?

Auckland is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Playa del Carmen is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Playa del Carmen has to offer. This town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to New Zealand, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand, The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Auckland Expensive? and Is Playa del Carmen Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Auckland or Playa del Carmen?

Auckland has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Playa del Carmen. When comparing the sizes of Auckland and Playa del Carmen, 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.

When is the best time to visit Auckland or Playa del Carmen?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Auckland is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Playa del Carmen has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Auckland or Playa del Carmen in the Summer?

Both Playa del Carmen and Auckland during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Auckland for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Playa del Carmen because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Auckland is cooler than Playa del Carmen. Typically, the summer temperatures in Auckland in January average around 20°C (68°F), and Playa del Carmen averages at about 28°C (82°F)in July.

In Playa del Carmen, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Auckland. In the summer, Auckland often gets more sunshine than Playa del Carmenin July. Auckland gets 240 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Playa del Carmen receives 223 hours of full sun.

Playa del Carmen gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Auckland usually gets less rain in January than Playa del Carmenin July. Auckland gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Auckland or Playa del Carmen in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Auckland and Playa del Carmen. The autumn months attract visitors to Auckland because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Playa del Carmen this time of year.

In April, Auckland is generally much colder than Playa del Carmenin October. Daily temperatures in Auckland average around 16°C (61°F), and Playa del Carmen fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Playa del Carmen this time of the year. Auckland usually receives less sunshine than Playa del Carmen during autumn. Auckland gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Playa del Carmen receives 233 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Playa del Carmen receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In April, Auckland usually receives less rain than Playa del Carmenin October. Auckland gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn. June to October is the hurricane season in Playa del Carmen.

Should I visit Auckland or Playa del Carmen in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Auckland as well as Playa del Carmen. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Auckland this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Playa del Carmen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Auckland is much colder than Playa del Carmen in the winter. The daily temperature in Auckland averages around 11°C (52°F) in July, and Playa del Carmen fluctuates around 23°C (73°F)in January.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Playa del Carmen. In the winter, Auckland often gets less sunshine than Playa del Carmenin January. Auckland gets 141 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Playa del Carmen receives 224 hours of full sun.

Auckland receives a lot of rain in the winter. Auckland usually gets more rain in July than Playa del Carmenin January. Auckland gets 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Auckland or Playa del Carmen in the Spring?

Both Playa del Carmen and Auckland are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Auckland for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Playa del Carmen in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Auckland is much colder than Playa del Carmen. Typically, the spring temperatures in Auckland in October average around 14°C (58°F), and Playa del Carmen averages at about 27°C (81°F)in April.

It's quite sunny in Playa del Carmen. Auckland usually receives less sunshine than Playa del Carmen during spring. Auckland gets 192 hours of sunny skies, while Playa del Carmen receives 259 hours of full sun in the spring.

In October, Auckland usually receives more rain than Playa del Carmenin April. Auckland gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the spring. June to October in Playa del Carmen is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Playa del Carmen and Auckland