A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cozumel vs. Washington for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Cozumel or Washington?

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 Cozumel and Washington can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cozumel

Cozumel is a vibrant, active, and colorful island. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Washington

Washington is a monument-filled, international, and diverse city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

Cozumel and Washington: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cozumel or Washington?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Washington than Cozumel, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Washington is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, music, hiking, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Cozumel is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Cozumel is more touristy than Washington and is known for its beautiful beaches and world class dive sites. Washington is popular for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. It is also home to The Washington Monument and the White House.

How is Cozumel different from Washington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cozumel or Washington?

Washington is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. Also, Cozumel is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Washington from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

Cozumel offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Check out the Island Museum, the Coral Reefs Monument, and some of the local Mayan ruins. Also worth a visit is Cozumel's Lighthouse.

Is Cozumel or Washington Better for Theater?

Washington is a great city for theatre. However, Cozumel is not a theatre destination.

Washington has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Cozumel is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Cozumel or Washington? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Washington is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Cozumel is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Washington has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Cozumel. You'll find a mix of tourist restaurants and hidden gems that serve up authentic Mexican dishes. Wander off the main streets to find the restaurants that are tucked away from the cruise ship crowds.

Is Cozumel or Washington Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find very good options in both Cozumel and Washington.

The nightlife in Cozumel has something for everybody. The nightlife scene is filled with cocktail lounges, beachfront bars, and wild weekend parties. There is something for everyone, whether you'll looking to sip wine by the ocean or party into the early morning.

Washington offers plenty to do in the evening. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

Is Cozumel or Washington Better for Music?

Washington is very good for live music. However, Cozumel is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Washington. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Cozumel is not a live music destination.

Is Cozumel or Washington Better for Resorts?

Cozumel is great for its luxury resorts. However, Washington is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Cozumel. There are hotels in the city center, and resorts by the beaches. For diving and snorkeling, stay in Southern Cozumel. Golfing and waterfront properties are popular in Northern Cozumel.

Washington is not a resort destination.

Is Cozumel or Washington Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cozumel is a world-class destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Washington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Cozumel is not to be missed. Many people visit Cozumel specifically for the world class diving. Palancar Reef is one of the best dive spots in the area, and thanks to conservation efforts it is rebounding and offers a diverse environment.

Washington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cozumel or Washington Better for Beaches?

Cozumel is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Washington is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Cozumel is a very popular vacation destination. The island is lined with beautiful beaches and you'll find great snorkeling and tourist-friendly amenities. Some of the best beaches are Playa Punta Morena, Playa El Cielo, and Playa Chen Rio.

Washington is not a beach destination.

Is Cozumel or Washington Better for Hiking?

Washington is adequate for hiking. However, Cozumel is not a hiking destination.

Washington has hiking trails if you want to get outside. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Cozumel is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cozumel or Washington?

If you're looking to go shopping, Cozumel and Washington both offer plenty of very good spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cozumel. For the best shopping head to Plaza del Sol, the Royal Village Shopping Center, or Los Cincos Soles. Expect cruise ship crowds and no shortage of tourists.

Washington is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

Is Cozumel or Washington Better for Christmas?

Washington is a must-visit destination for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Cozumel does not offer Christmas activities.

People travel from all around to experience the Christmas season in Washington. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Cozumel does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cozumel or Washington Better for Families?

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Cozumel or Washington.

Cozumel is a very family-friendly destination. The area is filled with water parks, snorkeling opportunities and, of course, fun-filled beaches. There are also wildlife reserves and Mayan ruins that aren't too far away.

Washington is a very kid-friendly island. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

Is Cozumel or Washington Better for Couples?

Both Cozumel and Washington are very good destinations to visit as a couple.

Cozumel is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. Beaches, resorts, and adventure sports make this the perfect couples destination. There are also great restaurants and plenty of interesting places to explore.

Washington is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

Is Cozumel or Washington Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cozumel is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Washington is not a good destination for backpackers.

Cozumel is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a few hostels in town and it's a safe and easy place to explore independently.

Washington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it is an international travel destination, the city often isn't at the top of most backpacker's lists. There are some affordable accommodation options available though if you know where to look.

Is Cozumel or Washington Better for Students?

Washington is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Cozumel is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Washington. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

Cozumel is not popular with students.

Is Cozumel or Washington Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Washington is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Cozumel is not known for its public transit.

Washington has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

Public transit is generally limited in Cozumel. Local buses don't efficiently travel to the beaches or the hotel areas, so most tourists don't use them.

Is Cozumel or Washington a more walkable city?

Washington is a must-visit destination for its walkability. Also, Cozumel is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its high level of walkability.

Washington is a very easy city to get around on foot. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

Cozumel is a very walkable island. It's easy to walk around the downtown as it's compact and fun to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Cozumel Worth Visiting? and Is Washington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Washington or Cozumel?

How long in Cozumel or Washington?

Both Cozumel and Washington have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Washington has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Washington than Cozumel. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Washington than Cozumel 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 Washington.

One day in Cozumel or Washington?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the vibrant island of Cozumel, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Because Washington is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Cozumel or Washington?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Cozumel, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Because Washington is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Cozumel or Washington?

Cozumel, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Washington is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Washington has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Cozumel or Washington?

Cozumel is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this island makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Washington. Because Washington is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best Adventure Tours to Mexico, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Cozumel or Washington?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Cozumel. When comparing the sizes of Cozumel and Washington, 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.