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

Should you visit Florianopolis or Cancun?

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

Should I visit Florianopolis or Cancun? 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.

Florianopolis

Florianopolis is a scenic, vibrant, and relaxing city. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking. See Florianopolis travel costs.

Cancun

Cancun is a party-hard, tropical, and active city. The beauty of Cancun is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Cancun travel costs.

Florianopolis and Cancun: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Florianopolis or Cancun?

You'll generally find more things to do in Cancun than Florianopolis. Cancun is bigger than Florianopolis, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Cancun is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and impressive beauty, while Florianopolis is more popular for its food and hiking. Cancun is more touristy than Florianopolis and is known for its water sports, white sand beaches, popularity at spring break, and access to Mayan ruins. Also, Cancun is famous for . Florianopolis is well known for its sandy beaches, world-class surfing, and beautiful nature.

Deprecated: ucfirst(): Passing null to parameter #1 ($string) of type string is deprecated in /homepages/12/d310477359/htdocs/citycomparison.php on line 1552

How is Florianopolis different from Cancun?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cancun is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. Also, Florianopolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Florianopolis. There are a number of science and cultural museums in the area that will introduce you to the region's local wildlife and history.

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

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

Florianopolis has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Perhaps the most popular local dish is feijoada, which is a stew that's slow cooked in a clay pot. It's a great dish for sharing and it originated in the region's African slave population. Another common food is pão de queijo, which is a dough that is made from cassava root flour. Also make sure you try the seafood, which is available in many restaurants around town.

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 Florianopolis or Cancun Better for Nightlife?

Cancun is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Florianopolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

People head to Cancun just to party. 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.

The people in Florianopolis know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene can vary between peak tourism times and the low season. There are plenty of bars around town that cater to the locals, and you can expect these to be open year round. Alternatively, there are also places that specifically open during the summer months and will close during the off season.

Is Florianopolis or Cancun Better for Resorts?

Cancun is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. Also, Florianopolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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 Florianopolis. You'll find a wide range of resorts that include everything from 5 star to more budget-friendly. There are also all-inclusive resorts and smaller, more personal places.

Is Florianopolis or Cancun Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cancun is a world-class destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Florianopolis 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.

Florianopolis is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Florianopolis or Cancun Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Florianopolis and Cancun are world-class choices.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Florianopolis. There are miles of beautiful beaches that are popular for surfing. Joaquina Beach is one of the most popular beaches, particularly with surfers, but Mole Beach is quickly catching up in popularity. Campeche Beach is one of the widest and longest stretches of beach on the island.

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.

Is Florianopolis or Cancun Better for Hiking?

Florianopolis 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 Florianopolis. The island is filled with beautiful jungles, striking beaches, and many dramatic settings that make it a great place to hike. The hikes also vary in length and skill level, so there really is something for everyone.

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 Florianopolis or Cancun?

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Florianopolis and Cancun.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Florianopolis. You'll find shopping malls and boutique retail shops that make for a great shopping experience.

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 Florianopolis or Cancun More Beautiful?

Cancun is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Florianopolis is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Cancun is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. White sand beaches and clear blue waters make this a beautiful vacation destination. Nearby jungle offers adventure, and the undersea world is magical.

Florianopolis is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Florianopolis or Cancun Better for Families?

Cancun is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Florianopolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Cancun is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Florianopolis. There are many outdoor activities, sports, beaches, and parks in the city. If your kids like to run around and have fun, you'll find some diverse experiences here.

Is Florianopolis or Cancun Better for Couples?

Cancun is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Florianopolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Cancun makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Florianopolis is a good city for couples to visit. Couples will enjoy the beautiful beaches and walking paths in the area. There's impressive natural beauty and a touch of undiscovered charm.

Is Florianopolis or Cancun Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cancun is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Florianopolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Florianopolis is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While it's not the most popular destination in Brazil, it does have a huge appeal with surfers.

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

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

Florianopolis has some public transit options. There are buses around town, including buses that travel between the downtown and the beaches.

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 Florianopolis or Cancun a more walkable city?

Cancun is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Florianopolis is not a walkable destination.

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

Florianopolis is not a walkable destination. Most people get around the city with a vehicle.

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

Should I spend more time in Cancun or Florianopolis?

How long in Florianopolis or Cancun?

Both Florianopolis and Cancun have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cancun than in Florianopolis. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Florianopolis, and 4-7 days is enough time in Cancun.

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Florianopolis. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the adventurous destination of Cancun. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Florianopolis or Cancun?

Florianopolis is a great place to explore. Don't miss the beaches, 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cancun. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Florianopolis or Cancun?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Florianopolis. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the wild destination of Cancun. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Florianopolis or Cancun?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic destination of Florianopolis. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the beautiful city of Cancun. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to Brazil, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Brazil, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Playa del Carmen, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Cancun.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Florianopolis and Cancun, we can see that Cancun is more expensive. And not only is Florianopolis much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Florianopolis is in South America and Cancun is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Florianopolis would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Florianopolis 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 Cancun would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cancun than you might in Florianopolis.

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

Which is Bigger, Florianopolis or Cancun?

Cancun has a larger population, and is about 31% larger than the population of Florianopolis. When comparing the sizes of Florianopolis and Cancun, 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.