A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cabo San Lucas vs. Albuquerque for Nightlife, Old Town, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Cabo San Lucas or Albuquerque?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Cabo San Lucas and Albuquerque can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas is a idyllic, wild, and adventurous city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a outdoorsy, desert, and historic town. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking.

Cabo San Lucas and Albuquerque: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cabo San Lucas or Albuquerque?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cabo San Lucas. Although Cabo San Lucas and Albuquerque are both popular with visitors, Cabo San Lucas has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cabo San Lucas is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Albuquerque is known for its museums & sights, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere. Cabo San Lucas is more touristy than Albuquerque and is popular for its beautiful coastline, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife scene. It is also home to Land's End. Albuquerque is popular for its adobe architecture, artisan shops, fascinating cultural venues, and surrounding desert landscapes.

How is Cabo San Lucas different from Albuquerque?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cabo San Lucas or Albuquerque?

Albuquerque is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Cabo San Lucas is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Albuquerque. The old town has a lot of history including the San Felipe de Neri Church. Also worth visiting is the Albuquerque Museum of Art and History, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Unser Racing Museum, and the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science.

Cabo San Lucas offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several historical sights in the area such as the Church of Saint Luke and San Jose del Cabo.

Is the Food Better in Cabo San Lucas or Albuquerque? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Cabo San Lucas and Albuquerque both to be very good destinations.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Cabo San Lucas makes for a great culinary experience. If you step away from the all-you-can-eat buffets in the resorts, and the tourist hot spots, you'll find some excellent local Mexican cuisine and nice fine dining restaurants. Fresh seafood and local produce make the dishes unique.

Albuquerque has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city's local cuisine combines Native American and Spanish flavors to make a variety of unique specialties. You should try the green chili stew, breakfast burrito, sopaipillas, and blue corn pancakes.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Albuquerque Better for Nightlife?

Cabo San Lucas is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife and partying.

Cabo San Lucas is a world class party destination. It has a long reputation of being one of Mexico's best party destinations. There are wild, all-night dance parties, crazy and crowded clubs, and music that lasts well into the morning. The best nightlife can be found in the blocks around Plaza Bonita, near the marina boardwalk.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Albuquerque. Head downtown and to the Nob Hill neighborhood for wine bars, breweries, and billiard halls. These areas have the best nightlife scene and they're also compact enough to explore on foot.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Albuquerque Better for Resorts?

Cabo San Lucas is a great city for its luxury resorts. However, Albuquerque is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Cabo San Lucas to choose from. Many of the resorts are along parts of the coastline where it's not safe to swim. If you really want to enjoy swimming at a beachfront property, make sure you do some research in advance. Medano Beach is a nice area to consider.

Albuquerque is not a resort destination.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Albuquerque Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cabo San Lucas is a great city for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Albuquerque is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Cabo San Lucas. There are many snorkeling and scuba diving excursions that go out on half day and full day trips. Some of the best snorkeling is found at Cabo Pulmo, which has the only living coral reef in the Sea of Cortez.

Albuquerque is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Albuquerque Better for Beaches?

Cabo San Lucas is a great city for its beaches. However, Albuquerque is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Cabo San Lucas for it's beautiful beaches. Because of the water conditions, it's not safe to swim at many of the beaches in the area. This is particularly true on the Pacific side of the city. Many people consider Medano Beach to be one of the best in the area, but also nice are Lover's Beach, the ironically named Divorce Beach, and Chileno Beach.

Albuquerque is not a beach destination.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Albuquerque Better for its Old Town?

Albuquerque is a world-class destination for its historic old town. Also, Cabo San Lucas is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

The historic old town of Albuquerque is revered around the world. There is a wonderful old town where the city's first neighborhood was established. It dates back to the early 1700's and has its roots in Spanish colonial history. The area has many adobe houses, great local restaurants, and artisan shops.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Cabo San Lucas. San Jose del Cabo is an "old town" that's a bit outside of town. It's particularly nice to visit on Thursdays when there's a nice market.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Albuquerque Better for Hiking?

Cabo San Lucas is a great city for hiking. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Cabo San Lucas for the hiking trails. It's not hard to get out into nature and you'll find many great hiking trails that go through varied and beautiful landscapes.

Albuquerque is a good destination for hiking. The desert landscape is varied and beautiful. Popular trails in the area include Tree Spring Trail, Birdhouse Ridge, and West Ridge.

Is the Shopping Better in Cabo San Lucas or Albuquerque?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Albuquerque and Cabo San Lucas.

Cabo San Lucas is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are many great shopping areas where you can pick up souvenirs or other interesting items to remember your trip. There are mall, markets, and boutique vendors that sell a variety of products.

Albuquerque is well-known for its shopping. The city's old town has many cultural artisan shops where you can buy local items. It's a fun and unique shopping experience, and though it sometimes feels a bit touristy, there are many local shops that offer an authentic experience.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Albuquerque Better for Families?

Cabo San Lucas is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

Cabo San Lucas is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will love the snorkeling, boat rides, and kid-friendly cuisine. There are many places where kids can get up close and personal with animals, such as Wild Canyon’s Kingdom or camel riding. You might even be able to see migrating whales during your visit. Surfing, fishing, and hiking are also popular in the area.

Albuquerque is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of nature centers as well as the Albuquerque BioPark Zoo. Outside of town there are many parks and natural areas to explore.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Albuquerque Better for Couples?

Cabo San Lucas is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its romantic activities.

Cabo San Lucas is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It has long been a favorite honeymoon destination and couples who enjoy a beach paradise with wildlife, diving, and outdoor adventures will appreciate Cabo San Lucas. There's also amazing Mexican food and world class resorts.

Albuquerque is a very popular place to visit for couples. Surrounded by natural beauty, and filled with culture and charm, this city makes a great romantic getaway. It's particularly wonderful during the famous International Balloon Fiesta.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Albuquerque Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cabo San Lucas is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Albuquerque is not known for backpackers.

Cabo San Lucas is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's a popular tourist destination, and there are a number of hostels and activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Albuquerque is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are campgrounds around that offer affordable and fun places to stay, but in general this town isn't particularly backpacker friendly.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Albuquerque Better for Students?

Albuquerque is a town with good options for students. However, Cabo San Lucas is not popular with students.

Albuquerque is popular with students. It offers a unique cultural environment that students can appreciate. There are also many outdoor recreational opportunities.

Cabo San Lucas is not popular with students.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Albuquerque Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cabo San Lucas is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Albuquerque is not known for its public transit.

While Cabo San Lucas offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Buses make up the main form of public transit. They are called Subercabos and run between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.

Public transit is generally limited in Albuquerque. ABQ Ride is the bus system around town, but most visitors prefer to have their own car.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Albuquerque a more walkable city?

Cabo San Lucas is a great city for its walkability. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its high level of walkability.

Cabo San Lucas is very walkable. The town is relatively easy to walk around with many things close together.

Albuquerque is a somewhat walkable place. Walkable areas include the old town, the area around the University of New Mexico, and the uptown area.

For even more information, also check out Is Cabo San Lucas Worth Visiting? and Is Albuquerque Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Albuquerque or Cabo San Lucas?

How long in Cabo San Lucas or Albuquerque?

It's fun to spend time in either Cabo San Lucas or Albuquerque. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Cabo San Lucas due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Cabo San Lucas, and 2-4 days is enough time in Albuquerque.

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

Couples should spend more time in Cabo San Lucas than Albuquerque. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Cabo San Lucas that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cabo San Lucas than Albuquerque 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 Cabo San Lucas.

One day in Cabo San Lucas or Albuquerque?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the idyllic city of Cabo San Lucas. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the nightlife. 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.

In Albuquerque, you'll find museums and nightlife. Visiting the old town is also a must. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Cabo San Lucas or Albuquerque?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the adventurous destination of Cabo San Lucas. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Albuquerque is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Cabo San Lucas or Albuquerque?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the adventurous city of Cabo San Lucas. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Albuquerque. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Cabo San Lucas or Albuquerque?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Cabo San Lucas. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the nightlife. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the town of Albuquerque. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Mexico, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Mexico, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Cabo San Lucas or Albuquerque?

Albuquerque has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Cabo San Lucas. When comparing the sizes of Cabo San Lucas and Albuquerque, 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.