A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cancun vs. Miami for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit Cancun or Miami?

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 Miami can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cancun

Cancun is a tropical, active, and adventurous city. Cancun is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food. See Cancun travel costs.

Miami

Miami is a exciting, diverse, and bustling beach city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and nightlife. See Miami travel costs.

Cancun and Miami: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cancun or Miami?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Miami than Cancun. While Cancun is larger than Miami, Miami has more sights and attractions for tourists. Miami is very popular for its food, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Cancun attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, and impressive beauty. Cancun is famous for its water sports, white sand beaches, popularity at spring break, and access to Mayan ruins. Miami is famous for its long sandy beaches, glitzy nightlife scene, diverse cultures, and award-winning restaurants. It is also well known for South Beach.

How is Cancun different from Miami?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Miami 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 Miami?

Cancun is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Miami is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Cancun is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Miami has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city's food scene is as diverse as its population. It is a blend of Caribbean, Latin American, and South American flavors and it is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. There is everything from award-winning restaurants to local dives that offer excellent dishes and experiences. The city is known for its stone crabs, fish sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, and key lime pie.

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 Miami Better for Nightlife?

The fantastic nightlife scene is relatively similar in Cancun and Miami.

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.

Miami has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. From the posh nightlife clubs in South Beach, to the local salsa dancing venues in Little Havana, Miami is a city that thrives with energy. There are many world-renowned clubs that keep the music and drinks flowing through the entire night. There's also a glitzy and glamourous scene where the wealthy like to see and be seen.

Is Cancun or Miami Better for Music?

Miami is renowned for its live music scene. However, Cancun is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Miami. Popular live music venues include Ball and Chain, Cafe La Trova, Flamingo Theater Bar.

Cancun is not a live music destination.

Is Cancun or Miami Better for Resorts?

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Cancun and Miami.

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.

Miami offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Known for it's luxury, you'll find many resorts in the area. Popular options include The Ritz-Carlton South Beach, Fontainebleau, and Carillon Miami.

Is Cancun or Miami Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cancun is an amazing city to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Miami 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.

Miami is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cancun or Miami Better for Beaches?

Cancun and Miami are fantastic choices for a beach vacation.

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.

The beaches in Miami are among the best in the world. If you're looking for long sandy beaches, luxury yacht clubs, and fine dining restaurants, the area's beaches have them all. Some of the best beaches in the area include the world-famous South Beach, the North Beach Oceanside Park, Sunny Isles Beach, and Surfside. Many beaches are lined with high rise hotels that offer an urban beach experience.

Is Cancun or Miami Better for Hiking?

Cancun is very good for its hiking experiences. However, Miami 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.

Miami is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cancun or Miami?

Miami is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Cancun is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Miami draws large crowds to its stores. The city has every high end brand you could want, along with diverse neighborhoods with local finds and unique purchases. You'll find many diverse shopping opportunities that are influenced by the city's cultural scene. You'll also find many souvenir stands and t-shirt shops.

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 Cancun or Miami More Beautiful?

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

Cancun is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. White sand beaches and clear blue waters make this a beautiful vacation destination. Nearby jungle offers adventure, and the undersea world is magical.

Miami is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cancun or Miami Better for Families?

Cancun is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Miami 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Miami is very family-friendly. Because it's so big, you'll find a number of kid-friendly activities in the area. There's the Miami Zoo, various waterparks, the Everglades Alligator Park, Miccosukee Indian Village, and plenty of indoor playgrounds in case the weather doesn't cooperate.

Is Cancun or Miami Better for Couples?

Cancun is an amazing city to visit for romance. Also, Miami is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Miami is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. For couples who love nightlife, wining and dining, and high end beach clubs, this is the place to be. There are many award-winning restaurants and plenty of glitz and glam that make for a great romantic getaway.

Is Cancun or Miami Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cancun is well known for backpackers. Also, Miami is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Miami. This city is large enough to have something for everyone, so you'll find several hostels in the area that bring in the backpackers.

Is Cancun or Miami Better for Students?

Miami is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Cancun is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Miami. Spring break in Miami is the stuff of legends.

Cancun is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Cancun and Miami.

Cancun has some public transit options. The buses are an efficient way to get around. They stop along Boulevard Kukulcán and throughout the downtown.

You'll find some public transit in Miami, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's an elevated metrorail as well as buses around the city.

Is Cancun or Miami a more walkable city?

Cancun and Miami are very good when it comes to walkability.

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

Miami is a very walkable destination. Many parts of city are surprisingly walkable and pedestrian friendly, allowing you to eat out, go shopping, or explore without the need for a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Miami or Cancun?

How long in Cancun or Miami?

Both Cancun and Miami have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Cancun has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Cancun than Miami. In general, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Cancun, and 7 days is enough time in Miami.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cancun than Miami 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 Miami?

In Cancun, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this party-hard destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Miami is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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.

A weekend in Cancun or Miami?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cancun. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Miami 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 Cancun or Miami?

Cancun is a fun place to experience. In Cancun, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Miami. 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.

A week in Cancun or Miami?

In Cancun, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this party-hard destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Miami is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This beach 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.

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 Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cancun and Miami, we can see that Miami 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 Miami would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Miami 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 Miami Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cancun or Miami?

Cancun has a larger population, and is about 42% larger than the population of Miami. When comparing the sizes of Cancun and Miami, 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.