A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Oaxaca de Juarez vs. Vernon for Attractions, Food, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Oaxaca de Juarez or Vernon?

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

Should I visit Oaxaca de Juarez or Vernon? 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 historic, cultural, and authentic city. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Oaxaca de Juarez travel costs.

Vernon

Vernon is a peaceful, relaxing, and quiet town. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and hiking. See Vernon travel costs.

Oaxaca de Juarez and Vernon: 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
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Oaxaca de Juarez than Vernon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Oaxaca de Juarez is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Vernon is more popular for its hiking. Oaxaca de Juarez is more touristy than Vernon and is popular for its indigenous cultures, historic center, and excellent food scene. Also, Oaxaca de Juarez is famous for Mercado Benito Juárez. Vernon is well known for its surrounding valley with lakes and hiking trails.

How is Oaxaca de Juarez different from Vernon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Oaxaca de Juarez
Vernon

Oaxaca de Juarez is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Oaxaca de Juarez on the map. 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.

Vernon is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are local galleries and museums that offer information on the region's history and culture. You can visit the Canadian Wildlife Museum, the Caetani Center, the Museum and Archives of Vernon, the Paddlewheel Park Stationhouse Museum, and the Vernon Public Art Gallery.


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

Oaxaca de Juarez
Vernon

Oaxaca de Juarez is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Oaxaca de Juarez is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Vernon. The region is known for its vineyards and wineries and many of the local restaurants have been around for generations. The food is often locally produced and prepared with traditional recipes.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Vernon Better for Nightlife?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Vernon

Oaxaca de Juarez is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Vernon is not a good town for nightlife.

Oaxaca de Juarez offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Vernon. The town gets very quiet in the evenings, so you won't find much of a nightlife scene.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez
Vernon

Oaxaca de Juarez is terrific for its historic old town charm. However, Vernon does not have a historic old town.

Oaxaca de Juarez has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

Vernon does not have a historic old town.


Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Vernon Better for Hiking?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Vernon

Vernon is great for hiking. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Vernon for the hiking trails. The surrounding valley has more than 300 kilometers of hiking trails. They run along pristine lakes, pass by granite rock formations, and take you to impressive viewpoints.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Oaxaca de Juarez or Vernon?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Vernon

Oaxaca de Juarez is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Oaxaca de Juarez is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Vernon. There are a number of boutique shops that are fun to explore in the downtown area.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Vernon Better for Families?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Vernon

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

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.

Vernon is a family-friendly place to visit. There are biking and hiking trails as well as other outdoor activities. You can also visit the Allan Brooks Nature Center or the Rock Garden Climbing Center.


Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Vernon Better for Couples?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Vernon

Oaxaca de Juarez is a well-known place for couples. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

Oaxaca de Juarez is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Vernon is a nice destination for couples. It offers a peaceful getaway for couples. You can visit the Okanagan wineries or enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also nice restaurants to try.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez
Vernon

Oaxaca de Juarez is terrific for backpackers. However, Vernon is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Oaxaca de Juarez is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Vernon is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel in town, but this isn't a popular destination for backpackers.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez
Vernon

Oaxaca de Juarez is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Vernon is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

Oaxaca de Juarez has a few public transit options. 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 Vernon. There is a bus system, but it's better not to rely on it.


Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Vernon a more walkable city?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Vernon

Oaxaca de Juarez is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Vernon is not a good town for its walkability.

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

Vernon is generally not a very walkable city. You'll really want to have a car to make the most of your time here.

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

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

How long in Oaxaca de Juarez or Vernon?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Oaxaca de Juarez and Vernon. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Oaxaca de Juarez than in Vernon. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Oaxaca de Juarez, and 1-3 days is enough time in Vernon.

Families should spend more time in Oaxaca de Juarez than Vernon. 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 Vernon. 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 Vernon 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 Vernon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Oaxaca de Juarez 2-5 
    Vernon 1-3

One day in Oaxaca de Juarez or Vernon?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Oaxaca de Juarez. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find museums and food around the quiet destination of Vernon. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Vernon?

Oaxaca de Juarez 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the peaceful town of Vernon. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Vernon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Oaxaca de Juarez. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Vernon is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Vernon?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Oaxaca de Juarez. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Vernon is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Coach Bus Tours in Canada, and The Best Adventure Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Vernon or Oaxaca de Juarez?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Oaxaca de Juarez Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Vernon Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Oaxaca de Juarez $54
    Vernon $47

The average daily cost (per person) in Oaxaca de Juarez is $54, while the average daily cost in Vernon is $47. 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 Vernon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Oaxaca de Juarez $19
    Vernon $4.68
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Oaxaca de Juarez $38
    Vernon $9.36
Compare Hotels in Oaxaca de Juarez and Vernon

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


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 and Vernon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Oaxaca de Juarez $12
    Vernon -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Oaxaca de Juarez

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

  • Shared Transfer from Downtown Oaxaca to the Airport: $7.92
  • Private Transfer from your Hotel in Oaxaca to the Oaxaca Airport: $14
  • Secure Private Transfer : Downtown Oaxaca Airport (OAX): $21
  • Private Transfer Airport Hotel in Oaxaca: $28
  • Oaxaca city: Roundtrip Private/Shared Airport Transfer: $29
  • From Oaxaca One way shared transfer to San Jose del Pacifico: $29
  • Oaxaca Airport (OAX) to Oaxaca de Juárez - Arrival Transfer: $29
  • Oaxaca hotels to Oaxaca Xoxocotlan Airport (OAX) - Departure Private Transfer: $29
  • Transfer Oaxaca Centro Boerve del Agua: $30
  • Private transfer from Oaxaca Airport to Oaxaca City: $50
  • Private Airport Transfer in Oaxaca Safe and Reliable Service: $53
  • Oaxaca Xoxocotlan Airport (OAX) to Oaxaca hotels -Round-Trip Private Transfer: $58

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

Prices for flights to both Vernon 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 $24
    Vernon $42

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:

  • Oaxaca: Walking Traditional Food Tour with Ancestral Drinks: $26
  • Food Tour at the 20 de Noviembre Market (All Inclusive): $52
  • Oaxaca: Guided Food Tour with Local Chef and food experts: $54
  • Legends and Ghosts Sightseeing Tour in Downtown Oaxaca with Dinner: $55
  • Taste Oaxaca Food Tour with 15+ Tastings: $59
  • FOOD TOUR IN THE ABASTOS MARKET: $61
  • Oaxaca: Evening Street Food Tour with 14+ Tastings: $66
  • Oaxaca Streets Food Tour with 14+ Tastings: $69
  • Oaxacan Vegetarian Cooking Class: $70
  • Oaxaca: Vegetarian Cooking Class: $70
  • Bike Ride and Street Food Tour in Oaxaca: $70
  • Flavors of Oaxaca: Cooking Class with No Set Menu and Local Market Tour: $75

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Oaxaca de Juarez $12
    Vernon -

Tours and Activities in Oaxaca de Juarez

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

  • Oaxaca Self-Guided City Walking Tour & Scavenger Hunt: $5.00
  • Oaxaca: Colonial City Bus Tour: $5.81
  • Oaxaca: Legends Tour Mezcalbús: $8.71
  • Immerse Yourself in Oaxaca: Guided Cultural Walking Tour: $15
  • Oaxaca Walking Tour: $20
  • Oaxaca Walking Tour: $20
  • Oaxaca: Monte Alban, Cuilapam, and Artisan Villages Tour: $21
  • Tour to Monte Alban, Black Mud, Waist Loom and Alebrijes: $21
  • Oaxaca Walking Tour: $21
  • Monte Alban Half Day Guided Tour: $21
  • First Day in Oaxaca – Guided Walking Tour: $21
  • Oaxaca: Oaxaca City Beyond the Surface Walking Tour: $23

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Oaxaca de Juarez $14
    Vernon $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Oaxaca de Juarez

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

  • Oaxaca Pub Crawl with Shots and Party Games: $19
  • Oaxaca Pub Crawl: $19
  • Oaxaca: Sustainable Mezcal Tour at an Award-Winning Family Distillery: $24
  • Hierve el Agua, Tule Tree, Mitla and Mezcal Distillery Tour: $55
  • Breakfast in Tlacolula; Ancestral and industrial mezcal distillery: $55
  • Hierve el Agua, Mitla, El Tule Tree, Rugs, Mezcal Distillery Tour: $58
  • Hierve el Agua and Distillery of Mezcal Tour: $60
  • Hierve el Agua and distillery of mezcal tour: $60
  • Oaxaca: Hierve el Agua & Mezcal Distillery Small-Group Tour: $70
  • Distillery Tour and Agave Fields by Mal de Amor Mezcal: $70
  • Oaxaca: Mezcal Distillery Tour with Tastings: $134
  • Mezcal Distillery Day Trip: $141


When comparing the travel costs between Oaxaca de Juarez and Vernon, we can see that Oaxaca de Juarez 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 Oaxaca de Juarez Expensive? and Is Vernon Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Oaxaca de Juarez or Vernon?

Oaxaca de Juarez has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Vernon. When comparing the sizes of Oaxaca de Juarez and Vernon, 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.