A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Brasilia vs. Cancun for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Brasilia or Cancun?

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 Brasilia and Cancun can help you decide which place is right for you.

Brasilia

Brasilia is a lively, vibrant, and cultural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Brasilia travel costs.

Cancun

Cancun is a tropical, active, and adventurous city. With stunning beauty, Cancun attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Cancun travel costs.

Brasilia and Cancun: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Brasilia or Cancun?


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Travelers will generally find more things to do in Cancun than Brasilia. While Brasilia is larger than Cancun, Cancun has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cancun is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Brasilia is known for its shopping and big city activities. Cancun is more touristy than Brasilia and is popular for its water sports, white sand beaches, popularity at spring break, and access to Mayan ruins. It is also home to . Brasilia is popular for its modernist architecture, abundant green space, and planned layout.



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How is Brasilia different from Cancun?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Brasilia or Cancun?

Brasilia
Cancun

Cancun is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Brasilia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Many visitors head to Cancun specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. It's possible to do a day trip to visit the impressive Chichén Itzá, but closer by you'll find El Rey Maya Ruins and El Meco Archaeological Site. You can also visit the Maya Museum in town. For something truly unique, you can take a diving or snorkeling trip to the Cancun Underwater Museum.

Brasilia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a variety of museums that highlight the city's rich history, modernist architecture, and diverse culture. Notable museums include the Museu Nacional, showcasing contemporary art, and the Museu de Arte de Brasília (MAB), which focuses on Brazilian art. The Memorial dos Povos Indígenas offers insight into indigenous cultures, while the Museu do Catetinho takes visitors through the early days of the city’s creation.


Is the Food Better in Brasilia or Cancun? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Brasilia
Cancun

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at good restaurants in both Brasilia and Cancun.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Brasilia area. The city's food scene is diverse, offering a mix of traditional Brazilian dishes and international cuisine. Since it is home to people from all over Brazil, you can find food from many different regions in one place. Popular dishes include Picanha (Brazilian steak), Feijoada (black bean and pork stew), and Tucunaré na Brasa (grilled fish).

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Cancun. If you step away from the tourist scene, you'll find some amazing local restaurants that serve authentic and fresh Mexican cuisine. Favorite dishes in the area include tamales, sopa de lima, and tacos al pastor.

Is Brasilia or Cancun Better for Nightlife?

Brasilia
Cancun

Cancun is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Brasilia is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Cancun is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. It's long been known as a party destination and there are large world famous clubs as well as smaller bars where you can hang out. The party never stops here, so be prepared for all night dancing and drinking, and it will definitely live up to its reputation.

If you're looking for night time activities Brasilia has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is more sophisticated and calm compared to other Brazilian capitals. It's not a party city by traditional standards, but it's ideal for those looking to enjoy good food, drinks, and live music in a more relaxed atmosphere. If you're looking for high-energy nightlife, the city might feel quieter, but it's still plenty of fun.

Is Brasilia or Cancun Better for Resorts?

Brasilia
Cancun

Cancun is renowned for its resorts. However, Brasilia is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Cancun is a perfect choice. You'll find most of the accommodation options in the Hotel Zone, which runs along Boulevard Kukulkan. The stretch can be divided into three areas, which each have a slightly different personality.

Brasilia is not a resort destination.


Is Brasilia or Cancun Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Brasilia
Cancun

Cancun is renowned for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Brasilia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Cancun is not to be missed. Beautiful reefs and world class dives make this a popular destination for those who want to explore the undersea world. You'll find plenty of snorkeling and dive excursions in the area with diverse coral and marine life.

Brasilia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Brasilia or Cancun Better for Beaches?

Brasilia
Cancun

Cancun is renowned for the beach. However, Brasilia is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Cancun is a very popular vacation destination. There are stunning white sand beaches and turquoise blue water that make this a beautiful beach destination. There are miles of sandy coastline with many of the beaches found in the Hotel Zone.

Brasilia is not a beach destination.

Is Brasilia or Cancun Better for Hiking?

Brasilia
Cancun

Cancun is very good for its hiking experiences. However, Brasilia is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Cancun. There are some beautiful walking paths and hiking trails that are within the area.

Brasilia is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Brasilia or Cancun?

Brasilia
Cancun

Brasilia is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Cancun is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Brasilia is well-known for its shopping. There is a mix of modern malls, local markets, and high-end boutiques. The city is home to several large shopping centers, such as Shopping Iguatemi, ParkShopping, and Conjunto Nacional, which feature a variety of international brands, local shops, and food courts. For more traditional items, the Feira da Torre is a popular open-air market where you can find local crafts, souvenirs, and handmade goods.

Many visitors go to Cancun to go shopping. While most people visit for the beaches and nightlife, there are shopping malls and markets where you can enjoy some retail therapy.

Is Brasilia or Cancun More Beautiful?

Brasilia
Cancun

Cancun is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Brasilia is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Cancun attracts visitors from all around. White sand beaches and clear blue waters make this a beautiful vacation destination. Nearby jungle offers adventure, and the undersea world is magical.

Brasilia is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Brasilia or Cancun Better for Families?

Brasilia
Cancun

Cancun is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Brasilia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Cancun is one of the most popular family destinations. Although this part of Mexico has long had a reputation for its party scene, the area also attracts many families, who come for the family-friendly resorts, world class snorkeling, and fascinating jungle tours. You can snorkel at the Garrafon Natural Reef Park or have fun on the water slides at Ventura Park. Xel-Ha Park is also worth a visit.

Brasilia offers lots of family activities. While it doesn't have as many theme parks as some of the other large cities in Brazil, there are a number of activities that families can enjoy. There's the Parque da Cidade, where children can ride bikes and play on playgrounds. There's also Nicolândia, a small amusement park with exciting rides. At the Brasília Zoo, kids can see native animals like jaguars, toucans, and capybaras while learning about Brazil's wildlife. The Planetarium of Brasília is a great spot for young space enthusiasts, featuring interactive exhibits and fascinating star shows.


Is Brasilia or Cancun Better for Couples?

Brasilia
Cancun

Cancun is renowned for couples. Also, Brasilia is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Cancun has plenty to offer. As a world class honeymoon destination, you'll find stunning white sand beaches, amazing snorkeling and diving, and a huge range of entertainment options. You can enjoy the nightlife scene or check out Cirque du Soleil. Sunset boat cruises and romantic horseback rides all make this an amazing honeymoon destination.

Brasilia is a nice destination for couples. There are sunset boat rides on Paranoá Lake. If you enjoy culture, you can visit the National Museum or admire the stunning architecture of the Cathedral of Brasília. A romantic dinner at a lakeside restaurant in Pontão do Lago Sul is perfect for a night out with delicious food and a relaxing atmosphere. For nature lovers, a peaceful walk or picnic at Jardim Botânico de Brasília provides a lovely escape from the city.

Is Brasilia or Cancun Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brasilia
Cancun

Cancun is well known for backpackers. However, Brasilia is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Cancun is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Mixed in between the luxury resorts are a few hostels that cater to the backpacker crowd. There are so many activities in the area, from diving to partying, that appeal to the backpacker crowd, that it won't be long before you find your people.

Brasilia is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's fascinating architecture and great green spaces, but the city has limited nightlife and it isn't the most popular destination for backpackers. There are some budget-friendly hostels and public buses that make it possible to explore without spending too much. Though it lacks a strong backpacker scene, Brasília's mix of culture, green spaces, and history makes it an interesting stop for adventurous travelers.

Is Brasilia or Cancun Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Brasilia
Cancun

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Brasilia and Cancun.

You'll find some public transit in Brasilia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The public transit system is relatively limited compared to larger Brazilian cities, but it still offers a few options for getting around. The Metro is an efficient choice for traveling through central areas, with two main lines that connect key neighborhoods like Asa Norte and Plano Piloto. There are also buses that are more comprehensive.

While Cancun offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The buses are an efficient way to get around. They stop along Boulevard Kukulcán and throughout the downtown.


Is Brasilia or Cancun a more walkable city?

Brasilia
Cancun

Cancun is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Brasilia is not particularly known for its walkability.

Cancun is a very walkable destination. The Hotel Zone is where most tourists spend their time, and this area is very walkable.

Brasilia is generally not a very walkable city. The city isn't particularly walkable because it is very spread out.

For even more information, also check out Is Brasilia Worth Visiting? and Is Cancun Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cancun or Brasilia?

How long in Brasilia or Cancun?

Both Brasilia and Cancun have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cancun than in Brasilia. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Brasilia, and 4-7 days is enough time in Cancun.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cancun than Brasilia 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 Cancun.


  • How many days in Brasilia or Cancun? Ideal Length of Stay
    Brasilia 1-3 
    Cancun 4-7

One day in Brasilia or Cancun?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Brasilia. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

The beautiful city of Cancun offers museums and nightlife. 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 Brasilia or Cancun?

Brasilia is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Cancun 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 Brasilia or Cancun?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brasilia. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

A week in Brasilia or Cancun?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the lively destination of Brasilia. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Cancun 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 Cancun has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Brazil, The Best 2-Week Tours in Brazil, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Mexico, and The Best Cultural Tours in Mexico.


Which place is cheaper, Cancun or Brasilia?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Brasilia is $93, while the average daily cost in Cancun is $136. 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 Brasilia and Cancun in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Brasilia $31
    Cancun $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Brasilia $62
    Cancun $158
Compare Hotels in Brasilia and Cancun

Looking for a hotel in Brasilia or Cancun? 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 Brasilia


Hotels in Cancun


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: Brasilia Hotel Prices and Cancun Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Brasilia $19
    Cancun $14

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Cancun

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Cancun:


  • Taxi Around Town
    $1.35
  • Airport Shuttle (for 2)
    $11
  • Ferry to Isla de Mujeres (for 2)
    $14
  • Local Bus (for 2)
    $1.64

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cancun

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

  • Cancun Airport Costa Mujeres Private Transfers ROUD TRIP: $70
  • Cancun Airport Private Transfer From & To Cancun Hotel Zone: $55
  • Private Transfer to/From Cancun Airpor/Hotel zone: $44
  • Airport Transfer Cancun: $60
  • Airport Transfers to Costa Mujeres - Private van (ROUND TRIP) FLAT RATE: $191
  • Airport Transfers to Puerto Juarez - Private van (ROUND TRIP) FLAT RATE: $149
  • Airport transfers to Isla Mujeres: $175
  • Amazing Combo - Horseback Riding, ATV (Single), Cenote & Ziplines with Transfer: $102
  • Arrival Private Transfer Cancun Airport CUN to Cancun by Minivan or Minibus: $29
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Cancun Airport CUN to Tulum by Minivan or Minibus: $132
  • Atv Cancun (cenote, Ziplines, Lunch And Transfer Included) : $69
  • Boat Adventure in Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve with Transfer from Cancún: $192

Is it cheaper to fly into Brasilia or Cancun?

Prices for flights to both Cancun and Brasilia 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
    Brasilia $48
    Cancun $40

Typical Food Prices in Cancun

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


  • Lunch for Two
    $17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cancun

For Cancun, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Señor Frogs Ticket with 2-Course Dinner and Drink: $39
  • Captain Hook: Pirate Show and Dinner Cruise in Cancun: $46
  • The Ultimate Cancun Taco & Street Mexican Food Tour: $59
  • (2x1 price) Dinner Show and Pirates Experience : $63
  • (2x1 price) Pirate Night! Dinner, Fun and Show: $63
  • Cancun Street Food Tour with Food Stalls, Local Market and Murals: $64
  • Cooking Show & Tequila Tasting: $69
  • Cancun Authentic Downtown Food Tour: Tacos and Local Flavors: $78
  • Jolly Roger Pirate Ship Cruise & Dinner Show: $78
  • Mexican Cooking Class with fresh Local Market ingredients selection and transpor: $79
  • Cancun Hands-On Mexican Cooking Class : $79
  • Paradise and Tropical Cancun Food Tour: $80

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Brasilia $17
    Cancun $28

Tours and Activities in Brasilia

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

  • Brasilia : Private Custom Tour with a Local Guide: $57

Typical Entertainment Prices in Cancun

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Cancun's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Seasick Pills
    $0.48
  • Whale Shark Tour (for 2)
    $82

Tours and Activities in Cancun

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

  • Visit to 5th Avenue in Playa del Carmen + Shopping Tour: $9.89
  • Cancun Mayan Museum Skip-the-Line Ticket: $12
  • Speedboat jungle tour and snorkel: $15
  • Isla Mujeres Catamaran tour with Open Bar, Lunch and Snorkeling: $16
  • Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus City Tour: $17
  • Chichen Itza Full Day Guided Tour with Buffet Meal and Pick up: $17
  • Chichen Itza Tour Full day food included: $18
  • Chichen Itza VIP Tour full day with Lunch and Drinks included: $18
  • 4X1 Tour to Tulum, Coba, Cenote and Playa del Carmen for the less: $19
  • Chichen Itza Early Access Tour, No Crowds, No Tourist Traps: $19
  • Isla Mujeres tour from Cancún (open bar, lunch ) : $19
  • VIP Complete Tour to Tulum, Coba, Cenote and Playa del Carmen: $19

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Brasilia $13
    Cancun $11


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

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


Which is Bigger, Brasilia or Cancun?

Brasilia has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Cancun. When comparing the sizes of Brasilia and Cancun, 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.