A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ensenada vs. Tallahassee for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Ensenada or Tallahassee?

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

Should I visit Ensenada or Tallahassee? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Ensenada

Ensenada is a outdoorsy, historic, and cultural city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a youthful, lively, and vibrant city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Ensenada and Tallahassee: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Ensenada or Tallahassee?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Ensenada than Tallahassee, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Ensenada is more popular for its food and beaches, while Tallahassee is known for its museums. Ensenada is more touristy than Tallahassee and is popular for its local cuisine, golf, and outdoor sports. It is also home to Avenida Lopez Mateos. Tallahassee is popular for its capital building and many universities.

How is Ensenada different from Tallahassee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ensenada or Tallahassee?

Ensenada
Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Ensenada is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Tallahassee offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. As the capital city of Florida, you'll find a number of museums around town. Tallahassee Museum has outdoor and indoor space to explore. You can also visit the Tallahassee Automobile Museum, the Museum of Florida History, or the Florida Historic Capital Museum.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Ensenada. There are several good museums in town such as the Museo de Historia and Caracol Museo de Ciencias.


Is the Food Better in Ensenada or Tallahassee? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ensenada
Tallahassee

Ensenada is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Ensenada has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The town is known for its seafood, and fish tacos is one of the most popular dishes. You'll find seafood markets and street cards selling fresh and local items. Sample your way through the city and enjoy all of the local specialties.

Tallahassee offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find plenty of chain restaurants and cheap eateries that cater to the students. The main options are classic American restaurants with a few international restaurants mixed in as well.

Is Ensenada or Tallahassee Better for Nightlife?

Ensenada
Tallahassee

It's hard to distinguish whether Ensenada or Tallahassee has a better nightlife scene.

Ensenada has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are a number of bars and nightclubs around town. Head to Avenida López Mateos for many of the best restaurants and bars.

If you're looking for night time activities Tallahassee has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the student population. There are many bars and pubs that fill up with students on weekends.

Is Ensenada or Tallahassee Better for Beaches?

Ensenada
Tallahassee

Ensenada is adequate for the beach. However, Tallahassee is not a beach destination.

The beach in Ensenada is worth checking out. It's a working port town and the beaches in the area aren't great. You'll find the best options to the south of the city.

Tallahassee is not a beach destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Ensenada or Tallahassee?

Ensenada
Tallahassee

Shopping is a popular activity in both Tallahassee and Ensenada.

Ensenada offers some nice shopping areas. Avenida López Mateos is the main shopping street in town. You'll find many shops, but be prepared to pay more than you might elsewhere because shopkeepers are used to cruise ship riders who are willing to pay a high price tag.

Tallahassee has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There is no shortage of strip malls and shopping centers in the area. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at Railroad Square and Market Square.

Is Ensenada or Tallahassee Better for Families?

Ensenada
Tallahassee

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Ensenada or Tallahassee.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Ensenada. You'll find ziplining, horseback riding, and surf lessons in the area. Kids will also enjoy seeing the Water Show or going whale watching.

Tallahassee offers lots of family activities. There are plenty of outdoor parks and adventure activities for kids. You could also see the wild manatees at Wakulla Springs.

Is Ensenada or Tallahassee Better for Couples?

Ensenada
Tallahassee

Ensenada is a city with good options for couples. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for romance.

Ensenada is a good city for couples to visit. The city has an authentic atmosphere that will let you experience a more genuine side to Mexico.

Tallahassee is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Head to a restaurant or bar. You could also check out a concert or explore a garden or park in town.


Is Ensenada or Tallahassee Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ensenada
Tallahassee

Ensenada and Tallahassee are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Ensenada. There are a few hostels and a number of cheap hotels around town.

Tallahassee is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The student population creates an environment that is welcoming to backpackers. There's also a hostel in town with affordable rooms.

Is Ensenada or Tallahassee Better for Students?

Ensenada
Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a great destination for students. However, Ensenada is not popular with students.

Tallahassee is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. Both Florida State University and Florida A&M University are located here. There's a large student population with many activities and cheap restaurants that appeal to the student crowd.

Ensenada is not popular with students.

Is Ensenada or Tallahassee Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ensenada
Tallahassee

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Ensenada and Tallahassee.

Public transit is generally limited in Ensenada. Public transit in the area is limited.

Public transit is mostly limited in Tallahassee. There is a bus system operated by StarMetro.


Is Ensenada or Tallahassee a more walkable city?

Ensenada
Tallahassee

Ensenada is great for its ease of walking around. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its walkability.

Ensenada is a very walkable destination. The downtown area is walkable and easy to explore on foot.

Tallahassee is generally not very walkable. There are a couple of walkable areas around Railroad Square, Downtown, and Midtown, but for the most part the city is not pedestrian-friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Ensenada Worth Visiting? and Is Tallahassee Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tallahassee or Ensenada?

How long in Ensenada or Tallahassee?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Ensenada or Tallahassee to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Ensenada than Tallahassee because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Ensenada, and 1-2 days is enough time in Tallahassee.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ensenada than Tallahassee 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 Ensenada.


  • How many days in Ensenada or Tallahassee? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ensenada 2-3 
    Tallahassee 1-2

One day in Ensenada or Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of Ensenada. 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.

The city of Tallahassee offers nightlife and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Ensenada or Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the cultural destination of Ensenada. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Tallahassee is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tallahassee, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Ensenada or Tallahassee?

The outdoorsy city of Ensenada offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Tallahassee is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Ensenada or Tallahassee?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Ensenada. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Tallahassee is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Mexico, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.


Which place is cheaper, Tallahassee or Ensenada?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Ensenada is $99, while the average daily cost in Tallahassee is $156. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Ensenada and Tallahassee in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ensenada $47
    Tallahassee $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ensenada $94
    Tallahassee $178
Compare Hotels in Ensenada and Tallahassee

Looking for a hotel in Ensenada or Tallahassee? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Ensenada


Hotels in Tallahassee


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Ensenada Hotel Prices and Tallahassee Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ensenada $21
    Tallahassee $33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ensenada

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Ensenada:

  • Transfer: From Tijuana to Valle de Guadalupe & Ensenada: $408
  • Border and Tijuana Airport Transfers to Ensenada or Valle de Guadalupe: $120

Is it cheaper to fly into Ensenada or Tallahassee?

Prices for flights to both Tallahassee and Ensenada change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Ensenada $39
    Tallahassee $47

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ensenada $11
    Tallahassee $12

Tours and Activities in Ensenada

Here are a few actual costs in Ensenada for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 8 Hour Private Tour : $131
  • ATV Off-Road Adventure through Valle de Guadalupe + Winery Visit: $77
  • Adventure in Ensenada with Zipline, Marine Geyser and Shops: $99
  • Bike and wine amazing Adventure in Valle de Guadalupe": $130
  • City tour on electric horse wagon.: $58
  • Couple Tour: $125
  • Electric Motorcycle Tour and rental.: $140
  • Ensenada : The unique bufadora private tour: $39
  • Ensenada Shore Excursion: Blowhole and La Bufadora Tour with Horseback Riding: $81
  • Ensenada Taco Tour by local guide: $94
  • A thrilled family adventure of ziplines: $70
  • Mezcal, Tequila, Ceviches and shoping Tasting Tour: $70

Tours and Activities in Tallahassee

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Tallahassee.

  • Luxury Picnic Experience at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Experience Tranquility with a Picnic at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $192
  • Tallahassee Delights: A Christmas Tour Through Art and Parks: $245
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $376
  • Tallahassee Delights: A Christmas Tour Through Art and Parks: $483

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ensenada $11
    Tallahassee $53

Sample the Local Flavors in Ensenada

Also in Ensenada, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Private Wine Tasting Experience in Maglén: $29
  • Xecue Wine Tasting in the Guadalupe Valley: $39
  • Wine tour valley of guadalupe: $60
  • Valle de Guadalupe Wine Tasting Tour: $78
  • From Wine Tasting at Guadalupe Valley Ensenada: $87
  • From Ojos Negros Valley Cheese & Wine Tasting Tour: $97
  • Wine Tasting Tour in Valle de Guadalupe: $115
  • Private Wine Tour at Valle de Guadalupe (A wine tasting included).: $119
  • wine tours and driver service through valle de guadalupe, Ensenada B.C. Mexico: $135
  • Wine tasting tour for Cruise Ship Visitors. All Inclusive!: $199
  • Private and custom group Wine tour Valle de Guadalupe : $220
  • Valle Experience by Ansell Wine Tours: $269


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

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


Which is Bigger, Ensenada or Tallahassee?

Ensenada has a larger population, and is about 67% larger than the population of Tallahassee. When comparing the sizes of Ensenada and Tallahassee, 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.