A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cancun vs. Vail for Nightlife, Resorts, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cancun or Vail?

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

Cancun

Cancun is a party-hard, tropical, and active city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Vail

Vail is a picturesque, scenic, and vibrant ski town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the nightlife, live music, and food.

Cancun and Vail: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cancun or Vail?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Vail than Cancun, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Vail is better known for its skiing, music, hiking, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Cancun is more popular for its museums & sights, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Cancun is well known for its water sports, white sand beaches, popularity at spring break, and access to Mayan ruins. Vail is well known for its world-class skiing, charming mountain town atmosphere, and adventurous outdoor activities. Also, Vail is famous for The Vail Ski Resort.

How is Cancun different from Vail?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Cancun or Vail Better for Skiing?

Vail is renowned for skiing and snowboarding. However, Cancun is not a skiing destination.

Vail is among the world's best ski destinations. This ski town has produced its share of Olympians. Vail is the third largest ski resort in the US and it has 31 lifts and 195 runs. There are five different bowls that offer beautiful views.

Cancun is not a skiing destination.

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

Cancun is a great city for its historical sights. However, Vail does not have museums and landmarks.

Cancun offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Vail does not have museums and landmarks.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at notable restaurants in both Cancun and Vail.

Cancun has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Vail area. The town has a diverse sampling of restaurants that include different ethnic options as well as taverns with comfort food. It's easy to find mountain-friendly restaurants where you can refuel during your ski vacation.

Is Cancun or Vail Better for Nightlife?

Cancun is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Vail is not as popular, but is still a nice ski town for its evening party scene.

Cancun is a world class party destination. 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.

Vail offers plenty to do in the evening. Happy Hours start early, and then the partying can go late into the night. There are bars, lounges, breweries and live music that keep the atmosphere light and offer entertainment after your long day on the slopes. Do keep in mind that many places close or dramatically reduce their hours during the off-peak fall and spring months.

Is Cancun or Vail Better for Music?

Vail 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 Vail. You can often find live music at Shakedown Bar, Bridge Street Bar, and the Red Lion.

Cancun is not a live music destination.

Is Cancun or Vail Better for Resorts?

Cancun is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. Also, Vail is not as popular, but is still a nice ski town for its resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Cancun is a great 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.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Vail. Designed as a resort town, Vail offers great accommodation. Nice resorts include Four Seasons Resort and Residences, the Ritz Carlton Club, and the Grand Hyatt.

Is Cancun or Vail Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cancun is a must-visit destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Vail is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Cancun a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. 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.

Vail is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cancun or Vail Better for Beaches?

Cancun is a must-visit destination for the beache. However, Vail is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Cancun. 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.

Vail is not a beach destination.

Is Cancun or Vail Better for Hiking?

Vail is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Cancun is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Vail. During the warmer months, this resort town is surrounded by world-class hiking trails. You can enjoy the wildflowers, search for wildlife, or take in the sweeping mountain views. Popular hikes near Vail include Booth Falls, Davos Trail, and Shrine Ridge.

Cancun has hiking trails worth exploring. There are some beautiful walking paths and hiking trails that are within the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Cancun or Vail?

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

Vail is well-known for its shopping. The cobblestone streets are lined with boutiques and ski shops that sell everything from evening dresses to outdoor gear. It's easy to pop into the many shops around downtown Vail and find anything you might need.

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 Vail Better for Christmas?

Vail is renowned for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Cancun does not offer Christmas activities.

Vail offers plenty of sights and activities around Christmas. The town is a winter wonderland during the holidays. Check out the iconic Christmas tree lighting and wander through the fairytale streets.

Cancun does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cancun or Vail Better for Christmas Markets?

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

Vail has a lively atmosphere around its Christmas markets. The town's Christmas Market is picturesque, and the perfect place to pick up some unique gifts.

Cancun does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cancun or Vail Better for Families?

You'll find world-class kid-friendly activities in either Cancun or Vail.

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.

Vail is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. With its world class skiing, rock climbing, ice skating, and ice cream, kids love this ski resort. The resort town has two terrain parks - Golden Peak and Avanti. Avanti is perfect for kids. It has small jumps, wide rails, and kid-friendly amenities. Golden Peak is designed for more advanced athletes. Vail also has nice beginner slopes that are great for kids.

Is Cancun or Vail Better for Couples?

Both Cancun and Vail are world-class destinations to visit as a couple.

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.

Vail has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples who enjoy skiing and outdoor adventure will appreciate everything that this ski town has to offer. There are nice restaurants, beautiful gardens, and plenty of romantic activities to choose from.

Is Cancun or Vail Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cancun is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Vail is not as popular, but is still a nice ski town for backpackers.

Many backpackers 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.

Vail is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. This ski town isn't completely closed off to budget travelers as there are a couple of hostels around town.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Cancun and Vail.

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 Vail, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a free bus service through the area.

Is Cancun or Vail a more walkable city?

Vail 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 Vail. The main downtown is pedestrian-only and perfect for popping in shops and restaurants.

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 Vail Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vail or Cancun?

How long in Cancun or Vail?

Both Cancun and Vail have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Vail has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Vail than Cancun. In general, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Cancun, and 3-7 days is enough time in Vail.

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

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

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Cancun. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Vail might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Cancun or Vail?

Cancun is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Vail is a great place to explore. Don't miss the skiing, 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 Vail?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the tropical destination of Cancun. This city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Vail. Don't miss the skiing, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Vail?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the party-hard city of Cancun. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Vail is a small town with plenty to do. This ski town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in 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 2-Week Tours in Mexico, The Best Adventure Tours to Mexico, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City.

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

Which is Bigger, Cancun or Vail?

Cancun has a larger population, and is about 120 times larger than the population of Vail. When comparing the sizes of Cancun and Vail, 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.