A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isla Mujeres vs. Boston for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Isla Mujeres or Boston?

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 Boston. 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 laid back, idyllic, and relaxing island. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Boston

Boston is a traditional, classic, and proud city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Isla Mujeres and Boston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Isla Mujeres or Boston?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Boston. Although Isla Mujeres and Boston are popular destinations, Boston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Boston is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, historical sights, christmas markets, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Isla Mujeres attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Isla Mujeres is famous for its award-winning beaches, underwater marine life, and tranquil atmosphere. Boston is famous for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also well known for The Freedom Trail.

How is Isla Mujeres different from Boston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Boston is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. However, Isla Mujeres is a mediocre island for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Boston are among the most recognizable in the world. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Isla Mujeres. Nobody really heads to this island for the museums.

Is Isla Mujeres or Boston Better for Theater?

Boston is notable for its theatre productions. However, Isla Mujeres is not a theatre destination.

Boston offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Isla Mujeres is not a theatre destination.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Isla Mujeres and Boston can be an enjoyable experience.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Isla Mujeres. 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.

Boston has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

Is Isla Mujeres or Boston Better for Nightlife?

Boston 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.

Boston has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

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 Boston Better for Music?

Boston is a good destination for its live music scene. However, Isla Mujeres is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Boston. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Isla Mujeres is not a live music destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Boston Better for Resorts?

Isla Mujeres is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Boston is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Isla Mujeres for its luxury resorts. Despite its small size, there are a range of impressive resorts on the island. Accommodation ranges from affordable hostels to stunning luxury resorts.

Boston is not a resort destination.

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

Isla Mujeres is an unbeatable place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Boston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Isla Mujeres. 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.

Boston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Boston Better for Beaches?

Isla Mujeres is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, Boston is a mediocre city for the beache.

Isla Mujeres offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

You can check out the beach in Boston. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Is Isla Mujeres or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its old town. However, Isla Mujeres does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Boston offers plenty to see. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Isla Mujeres does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Isla Mujeres or Boston?

Both Isla Mujeres and Boston are nice shopping destinations.

Isla Mujeres offers some nice shopping areas. Head downtown for the best opportunities to pick up gifts or souvenirs. You'll find local jewelry, art, and handicrafts.

Boston has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Is Isla Mujeres or Boston Better for Christmas?

Boston is notable for its Christmas activities. However, Isla Mujeres does not offer Christmas activities.

Boston is an extremely popular place to visit during the Christmas season. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Isla Mujeres does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Isla Mujeres or Boston Better for Christmas Markets?

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

Boston has a large number of Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Isla Mujeres does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Isla Mujeres or Boston Better for Families?

Both Isla Mujeres and Boston are terrific family-friendly destinations.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Isla Mujeres is very family-friendly. 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.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Boston is a very family-friendly destination. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

Is Isla Mujeres or Boston Better for Couples?

Isla Mujeres is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Isla Mujeres is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

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

Isla Mujeres is notable for backpackers. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Isla Mujeres. There are a handful of hostels on the island that offer budget accommodation and a social atmosphere.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Is Isla Mujeres or Boston Better for Students?

Boston is an unbeatable place for students. However, Isla Mujeres is not popular with students.

Boston is a very popular place to visit for students. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Isla Mujeres is not popular with students.

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

Boston is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Isla Mujeres is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Boston can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

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

Is Isla Mujeres or Boston a more walkable city?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Isla Mujeres is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Boston on foot. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Boston or Isla Mujeres?

How long in Isla Mujeres or Boston?

In either Isla Mujeres or Boston, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Boston 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 Boston.

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

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

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

One day in Isla Mujeres or Boston?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Isla Mujeres. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Each neighborhood in Boston has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Boston?

Isla Mujeres is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Boston is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the museums. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Isla Mujeres or Boston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Isla Mujeres. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

Each neighborhood in Boston has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the museums. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Isla Mujeres or Boston?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the laid back destination of Isla Mujeres. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Boston is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Isla Mujeres or Boston?

Boston has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Isla Mujeres. When comparing the sizes of Isla Mujeres and Boston, 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.