A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Playa del Carmen vs. Las Vegas for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Families

Should you visit Playa del Carmen or Las Vegas?

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

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Las Vegas? 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. Playa del Carmen is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Playa del Carmen travel costs.

Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a sexy, glamourous, and ritzy entertainment capital. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums. See Las Vegas travel costs.

Playa del Carmen and Las Vegas: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Playa del Carmen or Las Vegas?

You'll generally find more things to do in Las Vegas than Playa del Carmen. Las Vegas is bigger than Playa del Carmen, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Las Vegas is better known for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Playa del Carmen is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Playa del Carmen is well known for its coral reefs, luxury resorts, and white sand beaches. Las Vegas is well known for its magnificent resorts, world-class nightlife, all-you-can-eat buffets, and long running productions. Also, Las Vegas is famous for The Strip.

How is Playa del Carmen different from Las Vegas?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Las Vegas is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Playa del Carmen is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

Las Vegas offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Just wander along the Strip and pop in to any of the hotels to see what makes this city unique. There are many replicas of iconic landmarks around the world including the Venetian canals and the Eiffel Tower. You can also check out the Mob Museum, the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay, and the Neon Museum.

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 Las Vegas Better for Theater?

Las Vegas is an amazing entertainment capital to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Playa del Carmen is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in Las Vegas draw crowds from around the world. Long running shows along with traveling Broadway productions make the theater scene here diverse and entertaining.

Playa del Carmen is not a theatre destination.

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

Las Vegas is an amazing entertainment capital to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Las Vegas is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It has become famous for it's all-you-can-eat buffets, which you'll find in almost every hotel along the strip. To fully experience the sin of gluttony, head for one of the more luxurious hotels, which have the more expensive, but also higher quality buffets. Celebrity chefs have also opened many five star restaurants around town that you must try.

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 Las Vegas Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Playa del Carmen or Las Vegas has a better nightlife scene.

Playa del Carmen has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Las Vegas is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. From posh dance clubs to glitzy cocktail bars, its nightlife scene puts this city on the map. Many people forget to sleep here, whether they're gambling away their money, checking out a world class show, or partying in one of the many clubs.

Is Playa del Carmen or Las Vegas Better for Music?

Las Vegas is an amazing entertainment capital to visit for its music scene. However, Playa del Carmen is not a live music destination.

In Las Vegas you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. There are a number of long running shows as well as frequent musicians that pass through. There are also free live concerts and music festivals throughout the year.

Playa del Carmen is not a live music destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Las Vegas Better for Resorts?

Playa del Carmen and Las Vegas offer a relatively similar set of amazing luxury resort options.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Playa del Carmen is a great 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.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Las Vegas is a perfect choice. Along the strip you'll find world class resorts with casinos, shops, theaters, and all kinds of entertainment venues. Many resorts have a detailed décor that immerses you in an ambiance that unique from the world outside. Top rated resorts include the Bellagio, the Wynn, and Park MGM.

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

Playa del Carmen is very popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Las Vegas 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.

Las Vegas is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Las Vegas Better for Beaches?

Playa del Carmen is very popular for its beaches. However, Las Vegas is not a beach destination.

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.

Las Vegas is not a beach destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Las Vegas Better for Hiking?

Playa del Carmen is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Las Vegas 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.

Las Vegas is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Playa del Carmen or Las Vegas?

Las Vegas is an amazing entertainment capital to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Las Vegas is a world class destination for shoppers. The city's shopping scene combines high end brands with a style that is uniquely Las Vegas. Many hotels have their own malls or shopping areas where you can buy designer names or visit flagship stores.

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

Is Playa del Carmen or Las Vegas More Beautiful?

Playa del Carmen is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, Las Vegas is not a destination known for its beauty.

Playa del Carmen is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. From beautiful beaches to inland jungles, this is a truly stunning destination.

Las Vegas is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Playa del Carmen or Las Vegas Better for Families?

Playa del Carmen is very popular for its family-friendly activities. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Playa del Carmen is very family-friendly. 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.

Las Vegas is not always a place people visit with their families. The city is more known for its adult entertainment options than as a family-friendly destination, but there are good kid-friendly activities around town including kid-oriented shows, the Fun Dungeon in the Excalibur, and thrilling rides that are great for all ages.

Is Playa del Carmen or Las Vegas Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Playa del Carmen and Las Vegas make for a amazing place to visit.

Playa del Carmen makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

For those traveling as a couple, Las Vegas has plenty to offer. The city has become a mecca for weddings - whether impromptu or luxuriously planned out. With it's glamourous resorts and wide variety of entertainment options, couples can enjoy a fun-filled visit here.

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

Playa del Carmen is a good destination for backpackers. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Las Vegas is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most visitors are not backpackers, but for those who want to experience the hype while sticking to a budget, there are a handful of hostels around town.

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

Playa del Carmen is a good destination for its public transit. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital for times when you don't have a car.

Playa del Carmen has a few public transit options. There are local buses, collectivos and the ADO bus.

Public transit is mostly limited in Las Vegas. Many visitors use the Monorail to get around the Strip and the touristy areas. There's also a bus system that travels throughout the city.

Is Playa del Carmen or Las Vegas a more walkable city?

Playa del Carmen is very popular for its walkability. Also, Las Vegas is not as famous, but is still a good entertainment capital to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

Las Vegas is a somewhat walkable place. The area around The Strip is very walkable and pedestrian-friendly. In this area you can access many restaurants, hotels, and casinos.

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

Should I spend more time in Las Vegas or Playa del Carmen?

How long in Playa del Carmen or Las Vegas?

Both Playa del Carmen and Las Vegas have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Playa del Carmen has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Playa del Carmen than Las Vegas. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Playa del Carmen, and 2-7 days is enough time in Las Vegas.

Families should spend more time in Playa del Carmen than Las Vegas. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Playa del Carmen than Las Vegas 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 Las Vegas?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the town of Playa del Carmen. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

People visit Las Vegas because there is so much to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This entertainment capital offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Playa del Carmen or Las Vegas?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Playa del Carmen. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

People visit Las Vegas because there is so much to do. If you have a weekend, this entertainment capital makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Playa del Carmen or Las Vegas?

You'll find nightlife and food around the picture-perfect town of Playa del Carmen. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

Las Vegas is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Las Vegas?

Playa del Carmen is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Playa del Carmen, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Las Vegas is a great place to explore. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Playa del Carmen and Las Vegas, we can see that Las Vegas 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 Las Vegas would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Las Vegas 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 Las Vegas Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Playa del Carmen or Las Vegas?

Las Vegas has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Playa del Carmen. When comparing the sizes of Playa del Carmen and Las Vegas, 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.