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

Should you visit Isla Mujeres or Savannah?

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 Savannah. 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 scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Savannah

Savannah is a historic, beautiful, and charming city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping.

Isla Mujeres and Savannah: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Isla Mujeres or Savannah?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Isla Mujeres. Although Isla Mujeres and Savannah are popular destinations, Isla Mujeres has more sights and attractions for tourists. Isla Mujeres is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Savannah attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, and shopping. Isla Mujeres is more touristy than Savannah 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. Savannah is famous for its maritime past, its southern atmosphere, and its Historic District.

How is Isla Mujeres different from Savannah?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Isla Mujeres
Savannah

Savannah is notable for its sights and museums. However, Isla Mujeres is a mediocre island for its museums and history.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Savannah. The city's long history can be explored at the Savannah History Museum. With the Savannah School of Art and Design in town, you'll also find a great art culture with several museums such as the SCAD Museum of Art and the Jepson Center for the Arts. There's also the Georgia State Railroad Museum and the Sea Maritime Museum. There are several historic houses that you can visit as well, such as the Andrew Low House, the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace, and Harper Fowlkes House.

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 Savannah? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Isla Mujeres
Savannah

Dining out at restaurants in both Isla Mujeres and Savannah 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.

Savannah has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Local restaurants highlight southern hospitality as well as the cuisine. You'll find many classics such as crab cakes, shrimp and grits, and fried fish. There are many restaurants in historic buildings in the Historic District, but you'll also find a number of casual eateries in other neighborhoods.

Is Isla Mujeres or Savannah Better for Nightlife?

Isla Mujeres
Savannah

Isla Mujeres is a popular place for nightlife. However, Savannah is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Savannah is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife. Downtown Savannah and River Street are filled with bars and clubs that keep things lively when the sun goes down. During the warmer months there are outdoor venues, concerts and events, but even during the cooler seasons things stay busy.

Is Isla Mujeres or Savannah Better for Resorts?

Isla Mujeres
Savannah

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

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

Savannah is not a resort destination.


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

Isla Mujeres
Savannah

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

The clear water and abundant marine life make Isla Mujeres a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. 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.

Savannah is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Savannah Better for Beaches?

Isla Mujeres
Savannah

Isla Mujeres is an amazing island to visit for its beaches. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for the beache.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Isla Mujeres. 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.

Many people head to Savannah to enjoy the beach. While Savannah doesn't actually have a beach, you can head to nearby Tybee Island for waves and sun. It's about half an hour away and the closest beaches to the city are on the island's north side.

Is Isla Mujeres or Savannah Better for its Old Town?

Isla Mujeres
Savannah

Savannah is notable for its old town. However, Isla Mujeres does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Savannah. There's an impressive Historic District that is filled with gardens, historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and Oak-lined streets. There are wonderful hotels and traditional restaurants that offer a beautiful experience.

Isla Mujeres does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Isla Mujeres or Savannah?

Isla Mujeres
Savannah

Savannah 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.

Savannah is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping opportunities include art galleries, trendy clothing boutiques, and larger shopping malls. Visitors can wander down the popular Broughton Street, but there's also a City Market and Starland District.

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 Savannah Better for Families?

Isla Mujeres
Savannah

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

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

Savannah is a family-friendly island. There's a children's museum in town. There's also many outdoor parks and the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge. Kids will enjoy stopping for ice cream or other sweet treats, which are plentiful as well.

Is Isla Mujeres or Savannah Better for Couples?

Isla Mujeres
Savannah

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

Isla Mujeres makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Savannah makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Trees with Spanish Moss as well as a charming Historic District make this a nice destination for a couple's weekend. There are parks where you can enjoy a picnic. There are also nature trails and many great southern restaurants.


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

Isla Mujeres
Savannah

Isla Mujeres is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Savannah 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.

Savannah is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's a hostel in town, as well as a number of cheaper motels that are a bit outside of the Historic District.

Is Isla Mujeres or Savannah Better for Students?

Isla Mujeres
Savannah

Savannah is a good destination for students. However, Isla Mujeres is not popular with students.

Savannah is a good city to visit for students. There are a couple of colleges in town including the Savannah College of Art and Design.

Isla Mujeres is not popular with students.

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

Isla Mujeres
Savannah

Isla Mujeres is a popular place for its public transit. However, Savannah is not a good city 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 Savannah. While there are some types of public transit available, the vast majority of visitors have a vehicle, which they use to get around.


Is Isla Mujeres or Savannah a more walkable city?

Isla Mujeres
Savannah

Isla Mujeres and Savannah both are superb 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.

Savannah is a very walkable destination. The Historic District is very walkable, and it makes a pleasant place to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Savannah or Isla Mujeres?

How long in Isla Mujeres or Savannah?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Isla Mujeres and Savannah. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Savannah than in Isla Mujeres. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Isla Mujeres, and 1-3 days is enough time in Savannah.

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


  • How many days in Isla Mujeres or Savannah? Ideal Length of Stay
    Isla Mujeres 1-2 
    Savannah 1-3

One day in Isla Mujeres or Savannah?

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 Savannah, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this scenic city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Isla Mujeres or Savannah?

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.

Savannah is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Savannah?

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 scenic destination of Savannah. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Savannah?

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.

Savannah 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 Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Savannah or Isla Mujeres?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Isla Mujeres is $148, while the average daily cost in Savannah is $160. 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 Isla Mujeres and Savannah in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Isla Mujeres $78
    Savannah $84
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Isla Mujeres $156
    Savannah $168
Compare Hotels in Isla Mujeres and Savannah

Looking for a hotel in Isla Mujeres or Savannah? 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 Isla Mujeres


Hotels in Savannah


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: Isla Mujeres Hotel Prices and Savannah Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Isla Mujeres $35
    Savannah $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Isla Mujeres

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Isla Mujeres:

  • Private Transfer: Playa Mujeres to Cancun Airport CUN in SUV: $123

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Savannah

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Savannah:

  • Grave Encounters Tour with Guide and Transfers: $32
  • African American History Walking Tour w/ Transfer: $64
  • Savannah to Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) - Departure Private Transfer: $103
  • Private Transfer from SAV to Savannah: $206
  • Private Transfer from SAV to Hilton Head Island, SC : $222
  • Private Transfer from Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Savannah : $257
  • Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV): Private Transfer to Savannah: $432

Is it cheaper to fly into Isla Mujeres or Savannah?

Prices for flights to both Savannah and Isla Mujeres 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
    Isla Mujeres $46
    Savannah $58

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Savannah

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Savannah.

  • Grave Encounters Ghost Tour with Cellar and Dinner: $55
  • 2-Hour Southern Food Tour: $63
  • Savannah Ghost Trolley Tour with Dinner at the Pirate's House: $72
  • Monday Gospel Dinner Cruise: $76
  • Savannah First Squares Culinary & Cultural Walking Food Tour: $82
  • Savannah's Port City Walking Food Tour: $82
  • Famous and Secret East Side/Port City Food Tour: $82
  • 2 HR Savannah Riverboat Dinner Cruise with Onboard Entertainment: $91
  • Buffet Dinner Cruise with Live Entertainment: $91
  • Southern Traditions Dinner Tour: $106
  • True South Lunch Food Tour: $106

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Isla Mujeres $21
    Savannah $17

Tours and Activities in Isla Mujeres

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Isla Mujeres are as follows:

  • Tour Isla Mujeres excursion in Collective Transparent Boat: $37
  • Excursion Crystal Boat Tour at the Caribbean: $41
  • Crystal Boat Tour to Isla Mujeres and Reefs: $43
  • Snorkel Tour at Musa and Manchones Reef: $45
  • Isla Mujeres Snorkeling Adventure at the Underwater Museum: $47
  • Clear Boat Tour "La Isla": $47
  • Isla Mujeres Snorkeling Tour Adventure: $49
  • Snorkel Experience in Underwater Museum: $53
  • Cancun: Isla Mujeres 12 pm Catamaran Tour with Snorkeling: $59
  • UNDER WATER MUSEUM CANCUN SNORKEL ISLA MUJERES - Experience with Ticket: $65
  • Cancun Jungle Kingdom Adventure ATV, Zipline and Cenote : $70
  • Sunset Snorkeling Experience in Cancun: $70

Typical Entertainment Prices in Savannah

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Savannah are as follows:


  • Pub Crawl
    $10

Tours and Activities in Savannah

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Savannah are as follows:

  • Old Squares GPS Audio Guided Walking Tour: $5.50
  • Self-Guided 'Old Squares of Savannah' Solo Walking Tour: $7.50
  • Savannah’s Historical District: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Savannah Historical District: Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $7.99
  • Self Guided Audio Ghost Tour in Savannah in 6 Languages: $9.00
  • Johnson Square to Independent Presbyterian: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Savannah: $9.99
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Savannah by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Uncover Savannah's Secrets: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Uncover Savannah's Haunted Secrets: Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • City Highlights Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $13
  • Savannah Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $13
  • Savannah Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $13

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Isla Mujeres $25
    Savannah $34

Sample the Local Flavors in Isla Mujeres

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

  • Isla Mujeres Golf Cart Bar Crawl : $175

Sample the Local Flavors in Savannah

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Savannah:

  • Epic Savannah Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • Captain Stoner's Haunted Dive Bar Crawl: $20
  • Captain Stoner Joe's Haunted Dive Bar Crawl in Historic Savannah: $20
  • Captain Stoner's Late Night Happy Hour Pub Crawl in Savannah: $22
  • 10 to Midnight Happy Hour and Haunted Pub Crawl w/ the Captain: $22
  • Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl-Walking Tour Historic District: $25
  • Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Bloody Murder Savannah Pub Crawl: $30
  • Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Conjuring Cocktails Pub Crawl: $30
  • Savannah Bar Crawl by the Bridge: $32
  • Spooky Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl: $33


When comparing the travel costs between Isla Mujeres and Savannah, we can see that Savannah is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Savannah Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Isla Mujeres or Savannah?

Savannah has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Isla Mujeres. When comparing the sizes of Isla Mujeres and Savannah, 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.