A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isla Mujeres vs. Aspen for Food, Resorts, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Isla Mujeres or Aspen?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Isla Mujeres and Aspen. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres is a relaxing, laid back, and idyllic island. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Aspen

Aspen is a artsy, outdoorsy, and authentic ski town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Isla Mujeres and Aspen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Isla Mujeres or Aspen?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Aspen. Although Isla Mujeres and Aspen are both popular with visitors, Aspen has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Aspen is more popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, music, hiking, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Isla Mujeres is known for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Isla Mujeres is popular for its award-winning beaches, underwater marine life, and tranquil atmosphere. Aspen is popular for its world-class skiing, many food, film, and music festivals, and its stunning mountain hikes. It is also home to The Maroon Bells.

How is Isla Mujeres different from Aspen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Isla Mujeres or Aspen Better for Skiing?

Aspen is an unbeatable place for snow skiing. However, Isla Mujeres is not a skiing destination.

Aspen is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. Near the town, there are 4 separate ski resorts. In town you'll find Aspen Mountain, which is known for it's black-diamond runs. Aspen Highlands, a couple miles away, has a mix of slopes and is less crowded. Buttermilk attracts many freestyle skiers and Aspen Snowmass is considered one of the best family-friendly ski areas.

Isla Mujeres is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Isla Mujeres or Aspen?

Isla Mujeres is not so good for its museums and landmarks. However, Aspen does not have museums and landmarks.

Isla Mujeres offers a few options for museum-goers. Nobody really heads to this island for the museums.

Aspen does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Isla Mujeres or Aspen? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Aspen is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Isla Mujeres is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Aspen, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The town hosts many food festivals and there is a growing selection of diverse restaurants. In town you'll find cafes and restaurants that cater to both the local crowd and the travelers who flock to the area during peak seasons.

Isla Mujeres has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The island has many restaurants, particularly along Hidalgo Street in the Centro area. They typically have a laid back island vibe and serve local seafood or other popular cuisines.

Is Isla Mujeres or Aspen Better for Nightlife?

Aspen is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, Isla Mujeres is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its evening party scene.

Aspen has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The people in Aspen know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene includes craft beer, live music, and dancing. There's a local vibe, particularly during the off-season times when the tourist crowds are less.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Isla Mujeres. Many people visit the island as a day trip, but those who spend the night will enjoy hanging out at the beach bars along Playa Norte. Many have a laid back vibe and some have live music or DJs.

Is Isla Mujeres or Aspen Better for Music?

Aspen is notable for its live music scene. However, Isla Mujeres is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Aspen. Popular music venues in town include Silver City Mountain Saloon and Belly Up Aspen.

Isla Mujeres is not a live music destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Aspen Better for Resorts?

Isla Mujeres is renowned for its resorts. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Isla Mujeres is a world class resort vacation destination. Despite its small size, there are a range of impressive resorts on the island. Accommodation ranges from affordable hostels to stunning luxury resorts.

There are plenty of resorts in Aspen to choose from. Popular resorts in the area include The Little Nell, Hotel Jerome, and St. Regis Aspen.

Is Isla Mujeres or Aspen Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Isla Mujeres is renowned for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Aspen is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Isla Mujeres is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are many great snorkeling and diving areas just off the island. It's easy to arrange tours that will take you to the best spots. Popular areas include Manchones Reef, the Underwater Museum of Art, and Garrafon Natural Park.

Aspen is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Aspen Better for Beaches?

Isla Mujeres is renowned for the beach. However, Aspen is not a beach destination.

Isla Mujeres is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The island has spectacular beaches where the white sand meets the blue water. The idyllic setting is the perfect place to relax with a drink or soak up the island vibe. Playa Norte is an award winning beach that has calm water and stunning snorkeling. Playa Centro has many restaurants and bars, and you'll likely see people sunbathing topless. There's a beach club at Playa Albatros as well as hammocks, umbrellas, and recreational activities.

Aspen is not a beach destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Aspen Better for Hiking?

Aspen is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Isla Mujeres is not a hiking destination.

Aspen is a popular spot for hiking. During the summer and fall seasons, hiking is a great way to explore Aspen's nearby beauty. Popular trails include the Ute Trail, the Lost Man Trail, and the famous Maroon Bells Scenic Trail.

Isla Mujeres is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Isla Mujeres or Aspen?

Aspen is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Isla Mujeres is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its shopping areas.

Aspen is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many great local shops and art galleries where you can pick interesting items or fine art.

Isla Mujeres has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head downtown for the best opportunities to pick up gifts or souvenirs. You'll find local jewelry, art, and handicrafts.

Is Isla Mujeres or Aspen Better for Christmas?

Aspen is an unbeatable place for its Christmas activities. However, Isla Mujeres does not offer Christmas activities.

Aspen is a fantastic destination at Christmas. There are a number of beautiful activities that will bring the holiday season to life in the town.

Isla Mujeres does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Isla Mujeres or Aspen Better for Christmas Markets?

Aspen is notable for its Christmas markets. However, Isla Mujeres does not offer Christmas markets.

Aspen has a large number of Christmas markets. The town has a charming Christmas market that is fun to explore and has around 40 vendors.

Isla Mujeres does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Isla Mujeres or Aspen Better for Families?

Isla Mujeres is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Isla Mujeres is an extremely popular island to visit for families. Kids will love the outdoor sports, which include kayaking, surfing, cave exploration, and snorkeling or diving. There are also opportunities to get up close with marine life or spend the day playing at a water park.

Aspen offers lots of family activities. Families that enjoy skiing together, hiking, rock climbing, and having adventures will enjoy a visit to this town. Aspen Mountain is not a great option for beginning skiers, but further away, Aspen Snowmass offers good beginner slopes.

Is Isla Mujeres or Aspen Better for Couples?

Isla Mujeres is renowned for couples. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Isla Mujeres is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's a world class honeymoon destination and couples enjoy the white powdery sand beaches, turquoise blue waters, and laid back island vibe. There's diving and snorkeling as well as romantic hotels and wonderful local restaurants.

Aspen is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. Aspen is both a popular ski destination as well as an established town. There are many great restaurants and activities that couples can enjoy and the setting is cute and very scenic, making it a beautiful and romantic destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Aspen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Isla Mujeres is a great destination for backpackers. However, Aspen is a ski town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Isla Mujeres is a very popular island for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a handful of hostels on the island that offer budget accommodation and a social atmosphere.

Aspen is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Because it is both a town and a ski resort, there are a couple of more affordable accommodation options. Even so, this is an expensive destination that isn't always ideal for budget travelers.

Is Isla Mujeres or Aspen Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Isla Mujeres and Aspen offer good public transit options.

Isla Mujeres has a few public transit options. There are two bus routes around the island that are operated by Isleños Bus.

Aspen has some public transit options. There are several shuttle buses around the town.

Is Isla Mujeres or Aspen a more walkable city?

Isla Mujeres and Aspen both are very good when exploring on foot.

Isla Mujeres is a very walkable island. The most walkable part of the island is the North part, which is the town center.

Aspen is a very walkable destination. The town is compact enough that it can be explored on foot. If you're planning to head into the mountains to hike, you'll likely need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Isla Mujeres Worth Visiting? and Is Aspen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aspen or Isla Mujeres?

How long in Isla Mujeres or Aspen?

In either Isla Mujeres or Aspen, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Aspen than Isla Mujeres because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Isla Mujeres, and 3-5 days is enough time in Aspen.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Isla Mujeres than Aspen 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 Isla Mujeres.

One day in Isla Mujeres or Aspen?

In Isla Mujeres, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this laid back destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Aspen is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Isla Mujeres or Aspen?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Isla Mujeres. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Aspen is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Isla Mujeres or Aspen?

Isla Mujeres is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Isla Mujeres. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Aspen might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Isla Mujeres or Aspen?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the laid back destination of Isla Mujeres. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Aspen is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Mexico, The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Isla Mujeres or Aspen?

Isla Mujeres has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Aspen. When comparing the sizes of Isla Mujeres and Aspen, 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.