A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Perth vs. Cancun for Nightlife, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Perth or Cancun?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Perth and Cancun can help you decide which place is right for you.

Perth

Perth is a friendly, relaxed, and easy-going city. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cancun

Cancun is a tropical, active, and adventurous city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Perth and Cancun: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Perth or Cancun?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Cancun than Perth. While Perth is larger than Cancun, Cancun has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Cancun is more touristy than Perth and is known for its water sports, white sand beaches, popularity at spring break, and access to Mayan ruins. It is also well known for . Perth is famous for its beautiful city beaches, sunny weather, and isolated location.


How is Perth different from Cancun?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Perth or Cancun?

Perth
Cancun

Spend time exploring the very good sights and museums in either Perth or Cancun.

Many visitors head to Perth specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are some interesting sights and museums around town like the Perth Mint, the Art Gallery of Western Australia, the Bell Tower, and Scitech. There's also the Perth Zoo and the Aviation Heritage Museum.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Cancun can be an interesting and educational experience. It's possible to do a day trip to visit the impressive Chichén Itzá, but closer by you'll find El Rey Maya Ruins and El Meco Archaeological Site. You can also visit the Maya Museum in town. For something truly unique, you can take a diving or snorkeling trip to the Cancun Underwater Museum.


Is the Food Better in Perth or Cancun? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Perth
Cancun

Both Perth and Cancun offer nice local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Perth. There's a good selection of restaurants with many great international options as well as fine dining and casual. Family-friendly restaurants are also very common.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Cancun. If you step away from the tourist scene, you'll find some amazing local restaurants that serve authentic and fresh Mexican cuisine. Favorite dishes in the area include tamales, sopa de lima, and tacos al pastor.

Is Perth or Cancun Better for Nightlife?

Perth
Cancun

Cancun is very popular for nightlife. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Cancun is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. It's long been known as a party destination and there are large world famous clubs as well as smaller bars where you can hang out. The party never stops here, so be prepared for all night dancing and drinking, and it will definitely live up to its reputation.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Perth. The city has many nightclubs and music venues. There are also low key pubs and trendy wine bars. Northbridge is at the heart of the city's nightlife scene, and this is where you'll find the highest concentration of bars, restaurants, clubs, and cafes.

Is Perth or Cancun Better for Resorts?

Perth
Cancun

Cancun is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Perth is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Cancun is a perfect choice. You'll find most of the accommodation options in the Hotel Zone, which runs along Boulevard Kukulkan. The stretch can be divided into three areas, which each have a slightly different personality.

Perth is not a resort destination.


Is Perth or Cancun Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Perth
Cancun

Cancun is very popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Perth is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Cancun is not to be missed. Beautiful reefs and world class dives make this a popular destination for those who want to explore the undersea world. You'll find plenty of snorkeling and dive excursions in the area with diverse coral and marine life.

Perth is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Perth or Cancun Better for Beaches?

Perth
Cancun

Perth and Cancun are fantastic choices for a beach vacation.

With world-famous beaches, Perth is a very popular vacation destination. There is an 80 kilometer coastline that has beautiful turquoise water and white sandy beaches. Within the city there are 19 beaches that offer snorkeling, swimming, and surfing. Many beaches have any amenity that you might need but it's also very easy to escape the city crowds.

The beaches in Cancun are among the best in the world. There are stunning white sand beaches and turquoise blue water that make this a beautiful beach destination. There are miles of sandy coastline with many of the beaches found in the Hotel Zone.

Is Perth or Cancun Better for Hiking?

Perth
Cancun

Cancun is very good for hiking. However, Perth is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Cancun. There are some beautiful walking paths and hiking trails that are within the area.

Perth is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Perth or Cancun?

Perth
Cancun

If you're looking to go shopping, Perth and Cancun both offer plenty of nice spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Perth. There are weekend street markets where you can pick up local crafts. There are also large shopping malls and trendy high end boutiques with international and local brands.

Cancun offers some nice shopping areas. While most people visit for the beaches and nightlife, there are shopping malls and markets where you can enjoy some retail therapy.

Is Perth or Cancun Better for Families?

Perth
Cancun

Cancun is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Cancun is one of the most popular family destinations. Although this part of Mexico has long had a reputation for its party scene, the area also attracts many families, who come for the family-friendly resorts, world class snorkeling, and fascinating jungle tours. You can snorkel at the Garrafon Natural Reef Park or have fun on the water slides at Ventura Park. Xel-Ha Park is also worth a visit.

Perth is a very kid-friendly city. It's a family-friendly city with ropes courses, fruit picking, and many different playgrounds and kid-friendly activities. There's also the Perth Zoo and several kid-friendly museums like the Aviation Heritage Museum and Scitech. Kids will also enjoy spending a day or two at the beach.

Is Perth or Cancun Better for Couples?

Perth
Cancun

Cancun is very popular for romance. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Cancun has plenty to offer. As a world class honeymoon destination, you'll find stunning white sand beaches, amazing snorkeling and diving, and a huge range of entertainment options. You can enjoy the nightlife scene or check out Cirque du Soleil. Sunset boat cruises and romantic horseback rides all make this an amazing honeymoon destination.

Perth makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has many great restaurants and bars. There's also wine tasting and river cruises on the Swan River.


Is Perth or Cancun Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Perth
Cancun

Cancun is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Cancun is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Mixed in between the luxury resorts are a few hostels that cater to the backpacker crowd. There are so many activities in the area, from diving to partying, that appeal to the backpacker crowd, that it won't be long before you find your people.

It's common for backpackers to visit Perth. While most backpackers don't make it all the way to this isolated city, those that do will be rewarded with beautiful beaches, fun festivals, and an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience.

Is Perth or Cancun Better for Students?

Perth
Cancun

Perth is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Cancun is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Perth. Students love the low cost of living and the year round climate that is sunny and pleasant.

Cancun is not popular with students.

Is Perth or Cancun Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Perth
Cancun

Perth and Cancun both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Perth offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses, trains, and ferries that help you get around the city.

Cancun has a few public transit options. The buses are an efficient way to get around. They stop along Boulevard Kukulcán and throughout the downtown.


Is Perth or Cancun a more walkable city?

Perth
Cancun

Cancun is great for its walkability. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Cancun is very walkable. The Hotel Zone is where most tourists spend their time, and this area is very walkable.

Perth is a somewhat walkable place. There are some pedestrian-friendly areas with streets that are fun to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Perth Worth Visiting? and Is Cancun Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cancun or Perth?

How long in Perth or Cancun?

Both Perth and Cancun have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cancun than in Perth. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Perth, and 4-7 days is enough time in Cancun.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cancun than Perth 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 Cancun.


  • How many days in Perth or Cancun? Ideal Length of Stay
    Perth 2-4 
    Cancun 4-7

One day in Perth or Cancun?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Perth. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Cancun, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this tropical destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Perth or Cancun?

Perth is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cancun. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Perth or Cancun?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Perth. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Cancun is a fun place to experience. In Cancun, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Perth or Cancun?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the relaxed destination of Perth. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

In Cancun, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this adventurous destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Australia, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Australia, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Playa del Carmen, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Cancun.


Which place is cheaper, Cancun or Perth?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Perth is $133, while the average daily cost in Cancun is $145. 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 Perth and Cancun in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Perth $76
    Cancun $96
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Perth $152
    Cancun $192
Compare Hotels in Perth and Cancun

Looking for a hotel in Perth or Cancun? 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 Perth


Hotels in Cancun


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: Perth Hotel Prices and Cancun Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Perth $25
    Cancun $17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Perth

Also for Perth, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Perth City Hotels to Fremantle Cruise Port : $33
  • Private Transfer from Fremantle Cruise Port to Perth city hotels: $33
  • Private Transfer from Fremantle Cruise Port to Perth Airport(PER): $33
  • Rottnest Island Flight Transfer with Return Ferry: $221
  • One Way Flight Transfer to or from Rottnest Island: $165
  • Perth city to Perth Airport (PER) - Departure Private Transfer: $33
  • Perth Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to Perth city: $67
  • Hillarys Boat Harbour: Rottnest Island Ferry Transfer: $59
  • Departure Private Transfer: Perth City to Perth Airport PER in Business Car: $76
  • Ballooning in the Avon Valley plus Transfer from Perth : $258

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Cancun

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Cancun:


  • Taxi Around Town
    $1.65
  • Airport Shuttle (for 2)
    $14
  • Ferry to Isla de Mujeres (for 2)
    $16
  • Local Bus (for 2)
    $2.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cancun

Also for Cancun, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private RoundTrip Transfer to Xplor Adventure Park from Cancun: $297
  • Limo Transfer Airport Cancun - Puerto Morelos Hotel Zone: $279
  • Transfers in Lincoln Strecth Limousine with Wi Fi on board: $261
  • Round trip private transfer VAN-Airport-Hotel-Airport-Playa del Carmen: $260
  • Round trip private transfer VAN-Airport-Hotel-Airport-Puerto Morelos: $260
  • Round trip Private airport transfer to Playa del Carmen Flat Rate per vehicle: $240
  • Full-Day Tour to Xcaret Plus with Transfer from Playa del Carmen and Lunch: $238
  • Airport Transfers to Costa Mujeres - Private van (ROUND TRIP) FLAT RATE: $231
  • Holbox Private Transfer from Cancun Hotels or Airport: $229
  • Private Transfer from Cancún Airport (CUN) to Tulum : $224
  • Private One Way Transfer from Cancun Airport to Tulum: $220
  • Private round airport transfer from Cancun - Puerto Aventuras - airport.: $210

Is it cheaper to fly into Perth or Cancun?

Prices for flights to both Cancun and Perth 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
    Perth $36
    Cancun $28

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Perth

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

  • Hands on Cooking Class or Cooking Workshop Experience: $69
  • Half-Day Low and Slow BBQ Food Tour in Perth: $79
  • American BBQ Food Tour: $79
  • Perth Swan River Dinner Cruise: $112
  • Swan River Dinner Cruise with Beverages: $112
  • Pinnacles Sunset Dinner and Stargazing Experience a Small Group Tour: $116
  • From Pinnacles Sunset and Stargazing Tour with Dinner: $116
  • Pinnacle Desert Sunset and Stargazing with Dinner: $142
  • The 10 Tastings of Perth With Locals: Private Food Tour : $159

Typical Food Prices in Cancun

For Cancun, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch for Two
    $21

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cancun

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

  • Captain Hook: Pirate Show and Dinner Cruise in Cancun: $46
  • Mayan Chichen Itza And Pirate Dinner Two Day Experience: $57
  • The Ultimate Cancun Taco & Street Mexican Food Tour: $59
  • Dinner Show with Pirates! (2x1 Price): $62
  • (2x1 price) Dinner Show and Pirates Experience : $63
  • (2x1 price) Pirate Night! Dinner, Fun and Show: $63
  • (2x1 price)Pirate Adventure! Open Bar, Dinner and Show : $63
  • Pirate Show and Dinner (2x1 price)! Best Promo : $64
  • Cancun Street Food Tour with Food Stalls, Local Market and Murals: $64
  • Private Ultimate Cancun Taco and Street Mexican Food Tour: $69
  • Guided Cancun Local Mexican Food Tour: $77
  • Cancun Authentic Downtown Food Tour: Tacos and Local Flavors: $78

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Perth $14
    Cancun $35

Tours and Activities in Perth

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Perth.

  • 1 Day Margaret River Sightseeing Tour from Perth: $131
  • 2 Hours Whale Watching Tour in Fremantle: $50
  • Adventure Rottnest Tour with Ferry & Adventure Cruise: $102
  • Best of Fremantle 2-Hour Walking Tour: $30
  • Bickley Valley Wine & Cider Tour - Premium Small Group Tour: $132
  • Caversham Wildlife and Swan Valley Private Tour: $297
  • City Tour Perth & Fremantle & Swan River: $126
  • Cliffs and Caves Kayak Tour in Swan River: $59
  • Coffee, Culture, and Art Tour of Perth: $33
  • Design Your Own Tour Experience: $264
  • Discover Rottnest with Ferry & Bus Tour: $91
  • Dolphin, Penguin and Sea Lion Cruise: $56

Typical Entertainment Prices in Cancun

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Cancun's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Seasick Pills
    $0.59
  • Whale Shark Tour (for 2)
    $100

Tours and Activities in Cancun

For Cancun, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • ATV Jungle Adventure with Ziplines, Cenote Transportation Included: $8.00
  • Bacalar tour + Lunch + Boat, from Cancun and Riviera Maya: $139
  • Catamaran Cruise in Riviera Maya With Snorkeling & Beach Club: $85
  • Full Day All Inclusive Catamaran Tour to Isla Mujeres : $99
  • Full Day Chichen-Itza, Cenote and Valladolid Complete Tour: $37
  • Holbox Island Magic Tour from Cancun : $144
  • LDS Tour to Chichen Itza + Cenote : $165
  • Party Adventure at Isla Mujeres from Cancun & Playa del Carmen: $93
  • Private Tour to Tulum Ruins and Cenotes : $257
  • Reef and Sunken Ship Snorkeling Experience in Cancun: $85
  • Riviera Maya Luxury Snorkeling Cruise with Lunch and Drinks: $139
  • (4x1) Full day tour to Tulum, Coba, Cenote and Playa del Carmen : $48

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Perth $7.54
    Cancun $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Perth

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Perth:

  • Little Creatures Brewery Tours : $17
  • Half Day Swan Valley Wine Tour: $63
  • Afternoon Swan Valley Wine Tasting with Transportation: $63
  • Swan Valley: Half-Day Wine Tour From Perth: $63
  • Swan Valley Half Day Wine Tour from Perth: $65
  • Half-Day Swan Valley Wine Tour with Tastings - From Perth: $69
  • Swan Valley: Out for the Afternoon Wine Tasting with Lunch: $76
  • Small-Group Gin Distillery Tour in Perth: $89
  • Swan Valley: Full-Day Wine Tour with Lunch: $92
  • From Swan Valley Winery & Brewery Day Tour With Lunch: $109
  • Swan River Kayaking Tour with Dining and Wine Tasting: $109
  • Half-Day Swan Valley Winery & Brewery: $129

Sample the Local Flavors in Cancun

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

  • Social Pub Crawl in Cancun: $37
  • Small Group EkBalam Pink Lakes Cenote and Tequila Distillery Tour: $287


When comparing the travel costs between Perth and Cancun, we can see that Cancun 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. Even though Perth is in Pacific and Cancun is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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


Which is Bigger, Perth or Cancun?

Perth has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Cancun. When comparing the sizes of Perth and Cancun, 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.