A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Playa del Carmen vs. Colorado Springs for Nightlife, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Playa del Carmen or Colorado Springs?

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

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Colorado Springs? 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 vibrant, picture-perfect, and scenic 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.

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a outdoorsy, healthy, and welcoming mountain town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking, museums, and nightlife.

Playa del Carmen and Colorado Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Playa del Carmen or Colorado Springs?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Playa del Carmen than Colorado Springs. While Colorado Springs is larger than Playa del Carmen, Playa del Carmen has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Playa del Carmen is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Colorado Springs is more popular for its skiing, museums, hiking, and small town charm. Playa del Carmen is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is known for its coral reefs, luxury resorts, and white sand beaches. Also, Playa del Carmen is famous for La Quinta Avenida. Colorado Springs is well known for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views.

How is Playa del Carmen different from Colorado Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Playa del Carmen or Colorado Springs Better for Skiing?

Colorado Springs is a mountain town with a few options for winter skiing. However, Playa del Carmen is not a skiing destination.

While in the area, visitors like to go to Colorado Springs for snow skiing. The town isn't as accessible to skiing as Denver is, but there are still options, like Breckenridge, within a few hours drive.

Playa del Carmen is not a skiing destination.

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

Colorado Springs is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Playa del Carmen is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Colorado Springs. Most people visit this area for the outdoor recreation, not the museums, but in town you'll find the Colorado Springs Pioneer Museum, the Peterson Air and Space Museum, the Western Museum of Mining and Industry, and the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center. The U.S. Olympic Complex Training Center is also a unique place to visit and well worth some time.

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 the Food Better in Playa del Carmen or Colorado Springs? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Playa del Carmen and Colorado Springs can be difficult as they are each notable in their own way.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Playa del Carmen area. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Colorado Springs. There's a combination of local restaurants that serve local items such as trout and bison, as well as your standard chain restaurants and more predictable American classics like burgers, pizza, and chicken fingers.

Is Playa del Carmen or Colorado Springs Better for Nightlife?

Playa del Carmen is terrific for nightlife. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Playa del Carmen is a must-see party destination. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Colorado Springs has a few options to choose from. The town has a number of breweries and a great craft beer selection. There are local bars along Tejon Street, or head through Downtown Colorado Springs for some of the most active nightlife.

Is Playa del Carmen or Colorado Springs Better for Resorts?

Playa del Carmen is terrific for its resorts. However, Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Playa del Carmen is a perfect choice. 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.

Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

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

Playa del Carmen is terrific for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Colorado Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Playa del Carmen is not to be missed. 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.

Colorado Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Colorado Springs Better for Beaches?

Playa del Carmen is terrific for its beaches. However, Colorado Springs is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Playa del Carmen is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

Colorado Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Colorado Springs Better for Hiking?

Colorado Springs is an amazing mountain town to visit for its hiking experiences. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

People visit Colorado Springs specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are both world-famous hiking areas, as well as lesser known hikes that the locals often prefer. Some of the more famous places include Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, and Manitou Incline in Manitou Springs. For families, check out Seven Bridges Trail or Mount Muscoco Trail. Loud's Cabin is a longer trail that also includes Seven Bridges Trail.

Many people include a hike when visiting Playa del Carmen. There are well marked trails in the area that get you out in nature or take you along the coastline.

Is the Shopping Better in Playa del Carmen or Colorado Springs?

Playa del Carmen is very good for shopping. However, Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Colorado Springs Better for Families?

Playa del Carmen is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Playa del Carmen is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Colorado Springs is very family-friendly. The town is conveniently located near many outdoor adventures that are family-friendly. There are many parks, hiking trails, and wildlife centers in the area that make for a fun outing. Popular activities include the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, the Dinosaur Resource Center, and Cripple Creek and Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad.

Is Playa del Carmen or Colorado Springs Better for Couples?

Playa del Carmen is terrific for romance. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Playa del Carmen has plenty to offer. 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.

Colorado Springs makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy hiking and exploring nature together will love visiting this town and the areas nearby. There are many hiking trails in easy reach of the town. Hot air balloon rides are also popular and offer an amazing view over the beautiful landscape.

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

Playa del Carmen and Colorado Springs 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.

Colorado Springs is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Just outside of town you'll find campgrounds with all of the amenities that you might need. In town, there's also a hostel and several affordable accommodation options.

Is Playa del Carmen or Colorado Springs Better for Students?

Colorado Springs is a popular place for students. However, Playa del Carmen is not popular with students.

Colorado Springs is popular with students. It's a relatively affordable town with easy access to plenty of free activities like hiking, rock climbing, and more.

Playa del Carmen is not popular with students.

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

Playa del Carmen is very good for its public transit. However, Colorado Springs is a mountain town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Playa del Carmen, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses, collectivos and the ADO bus.

Public transit is quite limited in Colorado Springs. While there are buses, many people come to the area to visit Pikes Peak or several of the other nearby parks, all of which require a car.

Is Playa del Carmen or Colorado Springs a more walkable city?

Playa del Carmen is terrific for its walkability. However, Colorado Springs is a mountain town with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

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.

Colorado Springs is generally not a very walkable town. While the downtown area is walkable, you'll really want to have a car so you can explore the areas outside of town.

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

Should I spend more time in Colorado Springs or Playa del Carmen?

How long in Playa del Carmen or Colorado Springs?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Playa del Carmen and Colorado Springs. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Playa del Carmen than in Colorado Springs. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Playa del Carmen, and 2-3 days is enough time in Colorado Springs.

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

Couples should spend more time in Playa del Carmen than Colorado Springs. 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 Playa del Carmen than Colorado Springs 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 Playa del Carmen.

One day in Playa del Carmen or Colorado Springs?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the picture-perfect destination of Playa del Carmen. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the healthy destination of Colorado Springs. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This mountain town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Playa del Carmen or Colorado Springs?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the stunning town of Playa del Carmen. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

You'll find nightlife and food around the friendly mountain town of Colorado Springs. If you have a weekend, this mountain 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. Most people head to the area for the hiking. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Five days in Playa del Carmen or Colorado Springs?

Playa del Carmen is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Colorado Springs 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 Playa del Carmen or Colorado Springs?

Playa del Carmen is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Colorado Springs 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 head to the area for the hiking. 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 Colorado Springs, we can see that Colorado Springs 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 Colorado Springs would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Colorado Springs 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 Colorado Springs Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Playa del Carmen or Colorado Springs?

Colorado Springs has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Playa del Carmen. When comparing the sizes of Playa del Carmen and Colorado Springs, 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 Colorado Springs?

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 Colorado Springs in the Summer?

Both Colorado Springs and Playa del Carmen are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Playa del Carmen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Colorado Springs for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Playa del Carmen is a little warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the summer temperatures in Playa del Carmen in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Colorado Springs averages at about 71°F (22°C).

It's quite rainy in Playa del Carmen. In July, Playa del Carmen usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Playa del Carmen gets 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Colorado Springs in the Autumn?

Both Colorado Springs and Playa del Carmen during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Playa del Carmen for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Colorado Springs in the autumn for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Playa del Carmen is generally much warmer than Colorado Springs. Daily temperatures in Playa del Carmen average around 26°C (79°F), and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Playa del Carmen. Playa del Carmen usually gets more rain in October than Colorado Springs. Playa del Carmen gets 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.7 inches (17 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 Colorado Springs in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Playa del Carmen and Colorado Springs. Many visitors come to Playa del Carmen in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Colorado Springs for the skiing, the museums, and the cuisine during these months.

Colorado Springs can be very cold during winter. Playa del Carmen is much warmer than Colorado Springs in the winter. The daily temperature in Playa del Carmen averages around 23°C (73°F) in January, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 26°F (-3°C).

In January, Playa del Carmen usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Playa del Carmen gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Colorado Springs in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Playa del Carmen as well as Colorado Springs. Most visitors come to Playa del Carmen for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Colorado Springs because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Playa del Carmen is much warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the spring temperatures in Playa del Carmen in April average around 27°C (81°F), and Colorado Springs averages at about 45°F (7°C).

Playa del Carmen usually gets less rain in April than Colorado Springs. Playa del Carmen gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Playa del Carmen is June to October.

Typical Weather for Colorado Springs and Playa del Carmen