A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Oaxaca de Juarez vs. Lewisburg for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Backpackers

Should you visit Oaxaca de Juarez or Lewisburg?

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

Should I visit Oaxaca de Juarez or Lewisburg? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Oaxaca de Juarez

Oaxaca de Juarez is a authentic, traditional, and historic city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a quaint, charming, and historical town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Other reasons to visit include shopping and museums.

Oaxaca de Juarez and Lewisburg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular old town
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Oaxaca de Juarez or Lewisburg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Oaxaca de Juarez. Although Oaxaca de Juarez and Lewisburg are both popular with visitors, Oaxaca de Juarez has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Oaxaca de Juarez is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Lewisburg is known for its small town charm. Oaxaca de Juarez is more touristy than Lewisburg and is popular for its indigenous cultures, historic center, and excellent food scene. It is also home to Mercado Benito Juárez. Lewisburg is popular for its historical charm and friendly personality.

How is Oaxaca de Juarez different from Lewisburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lewisburg and Oaxaca de Juarez. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Oaxaca de Juarez or Lewisburg?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Lewisburg

Oaxaca de Juarez is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Oaxaca de Juarez that are not to be missed. There are many museums and historical sights in the city and nearby. The Oaxaca Cathedral is located on the city's main square, Zocalo. Also worth visiting is the Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán and the Basilica of Our Lady of Solitude. Just a few kilometers outside of the city is the historic settlement of Monte Albán as well as the Ex-Monastery of Santiago Apóstol. Also check out the Rufino Tamayo Museum and Museo Casa Juárez.

Lewisburg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several cultural and historical museums in town as well as a fun children's museum.


Is the Food Better in Oaxaca de Juarez or Lewisburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Lewisburg

Oaxaca de Juarez is an amazing city to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Oaxaca de Juarez is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. This is a city for foodies. Of all the destinations in Mexico, this one always tops the list for its cuisine. The food is influenced by traditional ingredients like corn and many of the recipes have been passed on through the generations. Local dishes include mole, Oaxaca cheese, coloradito, and tlayudas.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Lewisburg. There are bistros and cafes as well as all the standard chain restaurants.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Lewisburg Better for Nightlife?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Lewisburg

Oaxaca de Juarez is well known for nightlife. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Oaxaca de Juarez is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene starts late in the evening and can continue into the early hours. Many people meet up around Oaxaca Zocalo and it's very lively in the evenings. You'll often find live music and a fun atmosphere. As the night progresses, many people make their way to Santo Domingo, which is where you'll find a number of bars and clubs.

Lewisburg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. While there are some bars, most people don't come here for the nightlife.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Lewisburg Better for its Old Town?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Lewisburg

Oaxaca de Juarez is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

Oaxaca de Juarez offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The historic center is filled with colonial Spanish architecture. It's laid out in a grid pattern and there are many historic monuments. The surrounding region also has a history that dates back 1500 years.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Lewisburg. There are a huge number of historical buildings in the downtown area that contribute to the town's charm and character.


Is the Shopping Better in Oaxaca de Juarez or Lewisburg?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Lewisburg

Oaxaca de Juarez is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Oaxaca de Juarez is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The region's indigenous populations are known for the artisan crafts and handmade items. Many visitors enjoy shopping at the city's markets, where you'll find handmade ceramics, hand blown glassware, and more.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lewisburg. There are some quaint local shops that sell local items and unique art works.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Lewisburg Better for Families?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Lewisburg

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Oaxaca de Juarez or Lewisburg.

Oaxaca de Juarez offers lots of family activities. For trampolines, bouncy houses, and other fun activities, head to El Llano Park on a weekend. There's also an outdoor playground and other fun activities for kids at Museu Infantil de Oaxaca. Kid-friendly restaurants are abundant, and if the kids enjoy hiking, you can head out of town for a day trip.

Lewisburg is a family-friendly place to visit. The Lewisburg Children's Museum is worth checking out, as is Reptiland and the many different indoor and outdoor play areas.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Lewisburg Better for Couples?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Lewisburg

Oaxaca de Juarez is well known for romance. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Oaxaca de Juarez frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city is famous for its cuisine, so food lovers will enjoy dining their way through town. There are also great hotels, beautiful gardens, and fascinating architecture.

Most people don't think of Lewisburg as a couple's destination. There are several quaint inns and beautiful gardens that you can explore. There are also spas and restaurants where you can enjoy a nice meal.


Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Lewisburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Lewisburg

Oaxaca de Juarez is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Oaxaca de Juarez is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are many very affordable hostels around town. The city is a mecca for backpackers in Mexico, and you'll find plenty of people to hang out with and great restaurants to explore.

Lewisburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the radar for most backpackers.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Lewisburg Better for Students?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Lewisburg. Many students enjoy living here while they attend Bucknell University.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not popular with students.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Lewisburg Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Lewisburg

Oaxaca de Juarez is a popular place for its public transit. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Oaxaca de Juarez, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The city has colectivos, which are shared taxis. There are also buses and tuk tuks that you can use to get around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Lewisburg. Public transportation in the area is limited.


Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Lewisburg a more walkable city?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Lewisburg

Oaxaca de Juarez is well known for its walkability. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Oaxaca de Juarez is very walkable. It's a walkable city that's fun to explore on foot, particularly in the historic center.

Lewisburg is a somewhat walkable place. It's small with a relatively compact downtown.

For even more information, also check out Is Oaxaca de Juarez Worth Visiting? and Is Lewisburg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lewisburg or Oaxaca de Juarez?

How long in Oaxaca de Juarez or Lewisburg?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Oaxaca de Juarez or Lewisburg to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Oaxaca de Juarez than Lewisburg because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Oaxaca de Juarez, and 1-2 days is enough time in Lewisburg.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Oaxaca de Juarez than Lewisburg 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 Oaxaca de Juarez.


  • How many days in Oaxaca de Juarez or Lewisburg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Oaxaca de Juarez 2-5 
    Lewisburg 1-2

One day in Oaxaca de Juarez or Lewisburg?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Oaxaca de Juarez. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find museums and shopping around the historical destination of Lewisburg. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Oaxaca de Juarez or Lewisburg?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Oaxaca de Juarez. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find shopping and museums around the charming town of Lewisburg. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.


Five days in Oaxaca de Juarez or Lewisburg?

You'll find nightlife and food around the traditional city of Oaxaca de Juarez. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Lewisburg is a popular choice for travelers. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

A week in Oaxaca de Juarez or Lewisburg?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Lewisburg is a great place to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Mexico City, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Playa del Carmen, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, and The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Lewisburg or Oaxaca de Juarez?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Oaxaca de Juarez is $46, while the average daily cost in Lewisburg is $136. 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 Oaxaca de Juarez and Lewisburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Oaxaca de Juarez $20
    Lewisburg $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Oaxaca de Juarez $40
    Lewisburg $140
Compare Hotels in Oaxaca de Juarez and Lewisburg

Looking for a hotel in Oaxaca de Juarez or Lewisburg? 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 Oaxaca de Juarez


Hotels in Lewisburg


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: Oaxaca de Juarez Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Oaxaca de Juarez $13
    Lewisburg $53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Oaxaca de Juarez

Also for Oaxaca de Juarez, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • From Oaxaca: Private Transfer to Huatulco: $408
  • From Oaxaca: Transfer to Puerto Escondido: $402
  • Oaxaca Hotels to Oaxaca Airport OAX Departure Private Transfer: $36
  • Oaxaca International Airport - Private Transfer From/ to Oaxaca City: $56
  • Roundtrip Private/Shared Airport Transfer: $29
  • Oaxaca hotels to Oaxaca Xoxocotlan Airport (OAX) - Departure Private Transfer: $36
  • Oaxaca: Private transfer from Oaxaca airport to hotel: $52
  • Oaxaca: Santiago Apoala Waterfall Day Trip with Transfers: $344
  • Private transfer from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido - new highway: $270
  • Round private transfer Airport to hotel in Oaxaca: $59
  • Shared Arrival Transfer: Oaxaca Airport to Hotels: $46
  • Transfer Airport Hotel n Oaxaca: $16

Is it cheaper to fly into Oaxaca de Juarez or Lewisburg?

Prices for flights to both Lewisburg and Oaxaca de Juarez 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
    Oaxaca de Juarez $14
    Lewisburg $34

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Oaxaca de Juarez

For Oaxaca de Juarez, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Food tour in Mercado de Abastos (Vegetarian an Vegan Friendly): $33
  • Oaxaca: Night Street Food Tour with Transfers and Tastings: $52
  • Oaxaca: Vegetarian Cooking Class: $70
  • Oaxacan Vegetarian Cooking Class: $71
  • Flavors of Oaxaca: Cooking Class with No Set Menu and Local Market Tour: $77
  • AUTHENTIC OAXACA FOOD TOUR, eat like a local.: $89
  • Traditional Oaxaqueña Cooking with Grandma's Recipes: $90
  • Cooking classes from the Isthmus with a Tehuana: $92
  • Nixtamal Cooking Class & Tour To The San Agustin Center of Arts: $99
  • Traditional Oaxacan Cooking Class (includes transportation): $100
  • Oaxaca: Day of the Dead Evening Walking Tour with Dinner: $108
  • The Real Traditional Oaxaca Cooking class: $114

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Oaxaca de Juarez $13
    Lewisburg $18

Tours and Activities in Oaxaca de Juarez

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Oaxaca de Juarez.

  • MTB Bike Tour to the Tule Tree (Through the country-side): $6.00
  • Oaxaca Art Walk Tour: $15
  • Guided Tour to know the trades of Oaxaca: $18
  • Bicycle Tour through Oaxaca learning about its Urban Art and History: $19
  • Oaxaca: Oaxaca City Beyond the Surface Walking Tour: $23
  • Private Mexican Engraving Workshop Experience: $24
  • Monte Alban Walking Tour: $29
  • Half day tour Monte Alban: $32
  • Monte Alban Guided Half Day Tour: $32
  • Oaxaca: Monte Alban Guided Archaeological Tour: $33
  • Tour Monte Albán: $33
  • Oaxaca: Ocotlan de Morelos Cultural Experience and Tour: $34

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Oaxaca de Juarez $15
    Lewisburg $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Oaxaca de Juarez

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Oaxaca de Juarez:

  • Hierve el Agua, Tule Tree, Mitla and Mezcal Distillery Tour: $45
  • Only Hierve el Agua and Mezcal Distillery tour: $50
  • Only Hierve el Agua and Mezcal Distillery Tour: $50
  • From Hierve el Agua and Mezcal Distillery: $52
  • Tour to Hierve el Agua and Mezcal Distillery (Small groups): $66
  • Artisanal Mezcal distillery in an authentic Zapotec village : $150


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Oaxaca de Juarez Expensive? and Is Lewisburg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Oaxaca de Juarez or Lewisburg?

Oaxaca de Juarez has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Lewisburg. When comparing the sizes of Oaxaca de Juarez and Lewisburg, 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.