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

Should you visit Isla Mujeres or Vail?

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 Vail. 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 idyllic, relaxing, and laid back island. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Vail

Vail is a upscale, resort-filled, and charming ski town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Isla Mujeres and Vail: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Isla Mujeres or Vail?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Vail than Isla Mujeres, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Vail is better known for its skiing, nightlife, music, hiking, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Isla Mujeres is more popular for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Vail is more touristy than Isla Mujeres and is popular for its world-class skiing, charming mountain town atmosphere, and adventurous outdoor activities. Also, Vail is famous for The Vail Ski Resort. Isla Mujeres is well known for its award-winning beaches, underwater marine life, and tranquil atmosphere.

How is Isla Mujeres different from Vail?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Isla Mujeres or Vail Better for Skiing?

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

Vail is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. This ski town has produced its share of Olympians. Vail is the third largest ski resort in the US and it has 31 lifts and 195 runs. There are five different bowls that offer beautiful views.

Isla Mujeres is not a skiing destination.

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

Isla Mujeres is mediocre for its historical sights. However, Vail does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Vail does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Isla Mujeres is a great island for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Vail is not as popular, but is still a nice ski town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Isla Mujeres has a huge number of terrific 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Vail area. The town has a diverse sampling of restaurants that include different ethnic options as well as taverns with comfort food. It's easy to find mountain-friendly restaurants where you can refuel during your ski vacation.

Is Isla Mujeres or Vail Better for Nightlife?

Vail 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.

Vail has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Happy Hours start early, and then the partying can go late into the night. There are bars, lounges, breweries and live music that keep the atmosphere light and offer entertainment after your long day on the slopes. Do keep in mind that many places close or dramatically reduce their hours during the off-peak fall and spring months.

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 Vail Better for Music?

Vail 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 Vail. You can often find live music at Shakedown Bar, Bridge Street Bar, and the Red Lion.

Isla Mujeres is not a live music destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Vail Better for Resorts?

Isla Mujeres is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. Also, Vail is not as popular, but is still a nice ski town for its resorts.

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.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Vail. Designed as a resort town, Vail offers great accommodation. Nice resorts include Four Seasons Resort and Residences, the Ritz Carlton Club, and the Grand Hyatt.

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

Isla Mujeres is a must-visit destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Vail 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.

Vail is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Vail Better for Beaches?

Isla Mujeres is a must-visit destination for the beache. However, Vail is not a beach destination.

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.

Vail is not a beach destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Vail Better for Hiking?

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

Vail is a popular spot for hiking. During the warmer months, this resort town is surrounded by world-class hiking trails. You can enjoy the wildflowers, search for wildlife, or take in the sweeping mountain views. Popular hikes near Vail include Booth Falls, Davos Trail, and Shrine Ridge.

Isla Mujeres is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Isla Mujeres or Vail?

Vail 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.

Vail is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The cobblestone streets are lined with boutiques and ski shops that sell everything from evening dresses to outdoor gear. It's easy to pop into the many shops around downtown Vail and find anything you might need.

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 Vail Better for Christmas?

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

Vail is a fantastic destination at Christmas. The town is a winter wonderland during the holidays. Check out the iconic Christmas tree lighting and wander through the fairytale streets.

Isla Mujeres does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Isla Mujeres or Vail Better for Christmas Markets?

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

Vail has a large number of Christmas markets. The town's Christmas Market is picturesque, and the perfect place to pick up some unique gifts.

Isla Mujeres does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Isla Mujeres or Vail Better for Families?

Both Isla Mujeres and Vail are amazing 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, Vail is a very family-friendly destination. With its world class skiing, rock climbing, ice skating, and ice cream, kids love this ski resort. The resort town has two terrain parks - Golden Peak and Avanti. Avanti is perfect for kids. It has small jumps, wide rails, and kid-friendly amenities. Golden Peak is designed for more advanced athletes. Vail also has nice beginner slopes that are great for kids.

Is Isla Mujeres or Vail Better for Couples?

Isla Mujeres and Vail both amazing destinations for a couple.

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.

Vail makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who enjoy skiing and outdoor adventure will appreciate everything that this ski town has to offer. There are nice restaurants, beautiful gardens, and plenty of romantic activities to choose from.

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

Isla Mujeres is a great island for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Vail is not as popular, but is still a nice ski town for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Isla Mujeres. There are a handful of hostels on the island that offer budget accommodation and a social atmosphere.

Vail is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. This ski town isn't completely closed off to budget travelers as there are a couple of hostels around town.

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

Both Isla Mujeres and Vail offer notable 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.

Vail has some public transit options. There is a free bus service through the area.

Is Isla Mujeres or Vail a more walkable city?

Vail 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 Vail on foot. The main downtown is pedestrian-only and perfect for popping in shops and restaurants.

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 Vail Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vail or Isla Mujeres?

How long in Isla Mujeres or Vail?

Both Isla Mujeres and Vail have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Vail than in Isla Mujeres. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Isla Mujeres, and 3-7 days is enough time in Vail.

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

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

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Isla Mujeres. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Vail 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 Vail?

Isla Mujeres is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Vail 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. Lots of people come for the skiing. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Isla Mujeres or Vail?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the relaxing destination of Isla Mujeres. This island offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Vail 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. Lots of people come for the skiing. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Isla Mujeres or Vail?

The laid back island of Isla Mujeres offers nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

Vail is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. 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 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Isla Mujeres or Vail?

Isla Mujeres has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Vail. When comparing the sizes of Isla Mujeres and Vail, 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.