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

Should you visit Isla Mujeres or Cherokee?

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 Cherokee. 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 shopping, nightlife, and food.

Cherokee

Cherokee is a genuine, fascinating, and cultural town. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Isla Mujeres and Cherokee: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Isla Mujeres or Cherokee?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Isla Mujeres. Although Isla Mujeres and Cherokee are popular destinations, Isla Mujeres has more sights and attractions for tourists. Isla Mujeres is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Cherokee attracts visitors for its museums and hiking. Isla Mujeres is more touristy than Cherokee and is known for its award-winning beaches, underwater marine life, and tranquil atmosphere. It is also well known for the Underwater Museum of Art. Cherokee is famous for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails.

How is Isla Mujeres different from Cherokee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cherokee 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 Cherokee?

Cherokee is a good destination for its sights and museums. However, Isla Mujeres is a mediocre island for its museums and history.

Cherokee offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Many of the museums educate visitors on the Native American culture. Oconaluftee Indian Village, the Museum of the Cherokee People, and the Mountain Farm Museum each offer a unique and interesting perspective.

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

Isla Mujeres is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Isla Mujeres makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Cherokee has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are casual sandwich shops as well as several places that offer traditional Cherokee foods such as fry bread.

Is Isla Mujeres or Cherokee Better for Nightlife?

Isla Mujeres is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Cherokee. The town is generally quiet but you can head to Harrah's Cherokee Casino for drinks and entertainment.

Is Isla Mujeres or Cherokee Better for Resorts?

Isla Mujeres is an amazing island to visit for its resorts. However, Cherokee is not a resort destination.

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

Cherokee is not a resort destination.

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

Isla Mujeres is an amazing island to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Cherokee is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Isla Mujeres specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. 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.

Cherokee is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Cherokee Better for Beaches?

Isla Mujeres is an amazing island to visit for its beaches. However, Cherokee is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Isla Mujeres are among the best in 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.

Cherokee is not a beach destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Cherokee Better for Hiking?

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

Cherokee is a popular spot for hiking. There are many trails in the area that pass through forests, wander by waterfalls, and take you to spectacular viewpoints. The fall foliage is particularly nice during the autumn months.

Isla Mujeres is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Isla Mujeres or Cherokee?

Both Isla Mujeres and Cherokee 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.

Cherokee has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are craft shops and artisan vendors in the downtown area. It's fun to wander around for a few hours.

Is Isla Mujeres or Cherokee Better for Families?

Isla Mujeres is an amazing island to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Isla Mujeres is an amazing family-friendly island to visit. 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Cherokee is very family-friendly. It's proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park make this a fun destination for families. There are countless outdoor adventure activities. The town is also filled with Cherokee history and culture, so it offers educational experiences as well.

Is Isla Mujeres or Cherokee Better for Couples?

Isla Mujeres is an amazing island to visit for romance. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its romantic activities.

Isla Mujeres has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Cherokee makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Nearby there are many outdoor activities and adventure experiences. Couples who enjoy nature and exploring will appreciate a stay here.

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

Isla Mujeres is notable for backpackers. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Cherokee is a good island to visit for backpackers. There are several great campgrounds in the area as well as plenty of hiking opportunities.

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

Isla Mujeres is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Cherokee. There are some bus and shuttle routes, but a private vehicle is important if you want to make the most of your visit.

Is Isla Mujeres or Cherokee a more walkable city?

Isla Mujeres is notable for its walkability. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for its high level of walkability.

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

Cherokee is generally not a very walkable island. If you want to explore the area, you'll need a car to reach most places.

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

Should I spend more time in Cherokee or Isla Mujeres?

How long in Isla Mujeres or Cherokee?

It's fun to spend time in either Isla Mujeres or Cherokee. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Cherokee due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Isla Mujeres, and 2-4 days is enough time in Cherokee.

Families should spend more time in Isla Mujeres than Cherokee. 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.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Isla Mujeres than Cherokee 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 Cherokee?

The island of Isla Mujeres offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Cherokee, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this fascinating town offers. 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 Cherokee?

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

Cherokee is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Isla Mujeres or Cherokee?

Isla Mujeres 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the fascinating destination of Cherokee. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Isla Mujeres or Cherokee?

Isla Mujeres is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

Cherokee 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 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Isla Mujeres or Cherokee?

Isla Mujeres has a larger population, and is about 94% larger than the population of Cherokee. When comparing the sizes of Isla Mujeres and Cherokee, 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.