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

Should you visit Cancun or Boston?

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

Cancun

Cancun is a wild, party-hard, and tropical city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Boston

Boston is a proud, loyal, and historic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Cancun and Boston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cancun or Boston?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Boston. Although Cancun and Boston are roughly the same size, Boston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Boston is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, music, historical sights, christmas markets, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Cancun attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Cancun is more touristy than Boston and is popular for its water sports, white sand beaches, popularity at spring break, and access to Mayan ruins. Boston is famous for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also well known for The Freedom Trail.

How is Cancun different from Boston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Boston is renowned for its museums and history. Also, Cancun is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Boston are world-renowned. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Cancun can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Is Cancun or Boston Better for Theater?

Boston is a very popular place for its theatre productions. However, Cancun is not a theatre destination.

Boston has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Cancun is not a theatre destination.

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

Boston is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Cancun is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Boston has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Cancun area. 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 Cancun or Boston Better for Nightlife?

Cancun is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Cancun is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Boston has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

Is Cancun or Boston Better for Music?

Boston is very good for its live music scene. However, Cancun is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Boston. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Cancun is not a live music destination.

Is Cancun or Boston Better for Resorts?

Cancun is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Boston is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Cancun for its luxury resorts. 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.

Boston is not a resort destination.

Is Cancun or Boston Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cancun is an unbeatable place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Boston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Cancun. 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.

Boston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cancun or Boston Better for Beaches?

Cancun is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, Boston is a mediocre city for the beache.

Cancun offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

You can check out the beach in Boston. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Is Cancun or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Boston is renowned for its old town. However, Cancun does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Boston is one of the most recognized in the world. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Cancun does not have a historic old town.

Is Cancun or Boston Better for Hiking?

Cancun is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Boston is not a hiking destination.

Cancun offers some nice hiking trails. There are some beautiful walking paths and hiking trails that are within the area.

Boston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cancun or Boston?

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Cancun and Boston.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cancun. While most people visit for the beaches and nightlife, there are shopping malls and markets where you can enjoy some retail therapy.

Many visitors go to Boston to go shopping. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Is Cancun or Boston Better for Christmas?

Boston is a very popular place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Cancun does not offer Christmas activities.

Since it has plenty to do, Boston is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Cancun does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cancun or Boston Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is a very popular place for visiting Christmas markets. However, Cancun does not offer Christmas markets.

Boston has a lively atmosphere around its Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Cancun does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cancun or Boston Better for Families?

You'll find first-rate kid-friendly activities in either Cancun or Boston.

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.

Boston is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

Is Cancun or Boston Better for Couples?

Cancun is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Cancun is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Is Cancun or Boston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cancun is notable for backpackers. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Cancun. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Is Cancun or Boston Better for Students?

Boston is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Cancun is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Boston. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Cancun is not popular with students.

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

Boston is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Cancun is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Boston has a great public transit system. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

You'll find some public transit in Cancun, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The buses are an efficient way to get around. They stop along Boulevard Kukulcán and throughout the downtown.

Is Cancun or Boston a more walkable city?

Boston is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Cancun is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Boston. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Boston or Cancun?

How long in Cancun or Boston?

In either Cancun or Boston, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cancun than Boston because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Cancun, and 3-5 days is enough time in Boston.

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

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

One day in Cancun or Boston?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Cancun. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Boston is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Cancun or Boston?

Cancun 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.

Boston is a great place to explore. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. 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 Cancun or Boston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cancun. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boston. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Cancun or Boston?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the tropical destination of Cancun. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the classic big city of Boston. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Playa del Carmen, The Best 2-Week Tours from Cancun, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Cancun or Boston?

Boston has a larger population, and is about 9% larger than the population of Cancun. When comparing the sizes of Cancun and Boston, 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.