A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Playa del Carmen vs. Boston for Attractions, Nightlife, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Playa del Carmen or Boston?

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

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Boston? 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.

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is a scenic, stunning, and vibrant town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Boston

Boston is a classic, proud, and loyal city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Playa del Carmen and Boston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Playa del Carmen or Boston?

You'll generally find more things to do in Boston than Playa del Carmen. Boston is bigger than Playa del Carmen, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Boston is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, music, historical sights, christmas markets, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Playa del Carmen is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Playa del Carmen is more touristy than Boston and is known for its coral reefs, luxury resorts, and white sand beaches. Boston is well known for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. Also, Boston is famous for The Freedom Trail.

How is Playa del Carmen different from Boston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Playa del Carmen or Boston?

Boston is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Playa del Carmen is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Boston on the map. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

While most people don't head to Playa del Carmen specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. If you're willing to head out of town, there are world class Mayan ruins not far away, but if you want to hang out near town, then you'll likely spend most of your time enjoying outdoor water activities.

Is Playa del Carmen or Boston Better for Theater?

Boston is a great destination for its shows and theatre. However, Playa del Carmen is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Boston. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Playa del Carmen is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Playa del Carmen or Boston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Boston is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Boston is an experience not to be missed. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Playa del Carmen. You'll find a good number of overpriced tourist restaurants in the area, but if you do some research you'll also find amazing and authentic Mexican food as well. There is everything from food trucks to fine dining that offer ceviche, tacos, or burritos. There are also plenty of places to grab pizza or burgers.

Is Playa del Carmen or Boston Better for Nightlife?

Playa del Carmen is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Playa del Carmen is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. It rivals some of the country's best nightlife and you'll find plenty of venues to choose from, ranging from dive bars to swanky cocktail lounges. Head to the main walking street for some of the most active venues.

Boston has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

Is Playa del Carmen or Boston Better for Music?

Boston is a popular place for its music scene. However, Playa del Carmen is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Boston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Playa del Carmen is not a live music destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Boston Better for Resorts?

Playa del Carmen is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Boston is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Playa del Carmen for its luxury resorts. You'll find a huge number of luxury resorts in the area, particularly along the beach. There are fancy pools and beachfront properties that offer the perfect vacation retreat.

Boston is not a resort destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Boston Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Playa del Carmen is an unbeatable place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Boston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Playa del Carmen. There's not a lot to see right off of the beach, but there are plenty of snorkeling excursions in the area that take you to beautiful reefs. The diving is world class as well and you'll find wonderful reefs, bull sharks, and hidden gems.

Boston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Boston Better for Beaches?

Playa del Carmen is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, Boston is a mediocre city for the beache.

Playa del Carmen offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The area is filled with world class beaches, long stretches of white sand, and beautiful blue water. You might even stumble across a sea turtle or two while you're swimming.

You can check out the beach in Boston. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Is Playa del Carmen or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Boston is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Playa del Carmen does not have a historic old town.

Boston offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Playa del Carmen does not have a historic old town.

Is Playa del Carmen or Boston Better for Hiking?

Playa del Carmen is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Boston is not a hiking destination.

Playa del Carmen offers some nice hiking trails. There are well marked trails in the area that get you out in nature or take you along the coastline.

Boston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Playa del Carmen or Boston?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Boston and Playa del Carmen.

Many visitors go to Playa del Carmen to go shopping. Much of the shopping is geared towards the tourists, but you'll find some local items, interesting galleries, and colorful markets to explore.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Is Playa del Carmen or Boston Better for Christmas?

Boston is a great destination for its Christmas activities. However, Playa del Carmen does not offer Christmas activities.

Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in Boston. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Playa del Carmen does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Playa del Carmen or Boston Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is a great destination for its Christmas markets. However, Playa del Carmen does not offer Christmas markets.

The Christmas markets in Boston offer plenty to see during the holidays. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Playa del Carmen does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Playa del Carmen or Boston Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Playa del Carmen or Boston.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Playa del Carmen is a very family-friendly destination. From eco parks to kid-friendly snorkeling opportunities, there are many activities for kids of all ages. There are also adventure parks and playgrounds that are perfect for a fun afternoon.

Boston is one of the most popular family destinations. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

Is Playa del Carmen or Boston Better for Couples?

Playa del Carmen is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Playa del Carmen is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Beautiful beaches and tropical jungles make this a paradise honeymoon destination. You'll find luxury resorts, fine dining restaurants, and countless opportunities to enjoy the stunning setting. Take a sunset cruise of explore one of the many natural wonders in the area.

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Is Playa del Carmen or Boston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Playa del Carmen and Boston are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Playa del Carmen. It's filled with tourists staying at luxury resorts, but you'll also find a couple of hostels tucked away in town. If you're interesting in scuba diving, then it's well worth the trip.

Boston is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Is Playa del Carmen or Boston Better for Students?

Boston is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Playa del Carmen is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Boston. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Playa del Carmen is not popular with students.

Is Playa del Carmen or Boston Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Boston is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Boston is top-notch. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

While Playa del Carmen offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses, collectivos and the ADO bus.

Is Playa del Carmen or Boston a more walkable city?

Playa del Carmen and Boston both are amazing when exploring on foot.

Getting around Playa del Carmen on foot is easy. It's a compact and very walkable town. La Quinta is the main strip and it's pedestrian-only.

Boston is a very easy town to get around on foot. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Playa del Carmen Worth Visiting? and Is Boston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Boston or Playa del Carmen?

How long in Playa del Carmen or Boston?

In either Playa del Carmen or Boston, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Playa del Carmen than Boston because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Playa del Carmen, and 3-5 days is enough time in Boston.

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

Couples should spend more time in Playa del Carmen than Boston. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Playa del Carmen that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boston than Playa del Carmen 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 Boston.

One day in Playa del Carmen or Boston?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Playa del Carmen. 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.

People visit Boston because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Playa del Carmen or Boston?

Playa del Carmen is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

People visit Boston because there is so much to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the museums. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Playa del Carmen or Boston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Playa del Carmen. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Boston is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Playa del Carmen or Boston?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the stunning destination of Playa del Carmen. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Boston is a great place to explore. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the museums. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Playa del Carmen or Boston?

Boston has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Playa del Carmen. When comparing the sizes of Playa del Carmen and Boston, 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.

When is the best time to visit Playa del Carmen or Boston?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Boston in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Playa del Carmen and Boston. Most visitors come to Playa del Carmen for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Boston because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Playa del Carmen is a little warmer than Boston. Typically, the summer temperatures in Playa del Carmen in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Boston averages at about 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Boston this time of the year. In Playa del Carmen, it's very sunny this time of the year. Playa del Carmen usually receives less sunshine than Boston during summer. Playa del Carmen gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 304 hours of full sun in the summer.

Playa del Carmen gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Playa del Carmen usually receives more rain than Boston. Playa del Carmen gets 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Boston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Boston in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Playa del Carmen as well as Boston. The autumn months attract visitors to Playa del Carmen because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Boston this time of year.

In October, Playa del Carmen is generally much warmer than Boston. Daily temperatures in Playa del Carmen average around 26°C (79°F), and Boston fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Playa del Carmen this time of the year. In the autumn, Playa del Carmen often gets more sunshine than Boston. Playa del Carmen gets 233 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 194 hours of full sun.

Playa del Carmen receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Playa del Carmen usually gets more rain in October than Boston. Playa del Carmen gets 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to October in Playa del Carmen is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Boston in the Winter?

Both Boston and Playa del Carmen are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Playa del Carmen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Boston for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Boston. Playa del Carmen is much warmer than Boston in the winter. The daily temperature in Playa del Carmen averages around 23°C (73°F) in January, and Boston fluctuates around 29°F (-2°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Playa del Carmen. Playa del Carmen usually receives more sunshine than Boston during winter. Playa del Carmen gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Playa del Carmen usually receives less rain than Boston. Playa del Carmen gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Boston in the Spring?

Both Boston and Playa del Carmen during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Playa del Carmen for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Boston in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Playa del Carmen is much warmer than Boston. Typically, the spring temperatures in Playa del Carmen in April average around 27°C (81°F), and Boston averages at about 48°F (9°C).

In Boston, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Playa del Carmen. In the spring, Playa del Carmen often gets more sunshine than Boston. Playa del Carmen gets 259 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 225 hours of full sun.

Playa del Carmen usually gets less rain in April than Boston. Playa del Carmen gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Playa del Carmen is June to October.

Typical Weather for Boston and Playa del Carmen