A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Playa del Carmen vs. Saint Petersburg for Nightlife, Resorts, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Playa del Carmen or Saint Petersburg?

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

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Saint Petersburg? 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 picture-perfect, scenic, and stunning town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is a underrated, relaxed, and fun-filled coastal city. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Playa del Carmen and Saint Petersburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Playa del Carmen or Saint Petersburg?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Playa del Carmen than Saint Petersburg. While Saint Petersburg is larger than Playa del Carmen, Playa del Carmen has more sights and attractions for tourists. Playa del Carmen is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Saint Petersburg is more popular for its museums and food. Playa del Carmen is more touristy than Saint Petersburg and is popular for its coral reefs, luxury resorts, and white sand beaches. Also, Playa del Carmen is famous for La Quinta Avenida. Saint Petersburg is well known for its warm weather, sandy beaches, and outdoor activities.

How is Playa del Carmen different from Saint Petersburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Saint Petersburg offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are a variety of history, science, and art museums in the area. The Dalí Museum, Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum, The Florida Holocaust Museum, and Imagine Museum of Contemporary Glass Art are some of the favorites.

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 Saint Petersburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg is an experience not to be missed. It's location on the Gulf Coast means that seafood is everywhere. You'll enjoy fresh oysters, fried calamari, grilled fish, and fried shrimp on many menus. Casual restaurants and local eateries are common around town.

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 Saint Petersburg Better for Nightlife?

Playa del Carmen is terrific for nightlife. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Saint Petersburg. There are beachside bars, rooftop restaurants, and dance clubs around town for those looking for a night out.

Is Playa del Carmen or Saint Petersburg Better for Resorts?

Playa del Carmen is terrific for its luxury resorts. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its resorts.

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.

With a selection of resorts, Saint Petersburg makes a nice vacation spot. You'll find most of the resorts near the beach. Many have pools and they range in style and budget level.

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

Playa del Carmen is terrific for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Saint Petersburg 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.

Saint Petersburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Saint Petersburg Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Playa del Carmen and Saint Petersburg are world-class choices.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Playa del Carmen. 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.

With world-famous beaches, Saint Petersburg is a very popular vacation destination. You'll find great sandy beaches with calm blue water and a relaxed atmosphere. Some of the best beaches include Egmont Key, Fort DeSoto Beach, Maximo Beach, and St. Pete's Municipal Beach.

Is Playa del Carmen or Saint Petersburg Better for Hiking?

Playa del Carmen is very good for hiking. However, Saint Petersburg is not a hiking destination.

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.

Saint Petersburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Playa del Carmen or Saint Petersburg?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg. You'll find plenty of shopping malls and shopping centers around town. Along the boardwalk and in John's Pass Village there are also restaurants and souvenir stores.

Is Playa del Carmen or Saint Petersburg Better for Families?

Playa del Carmen is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its family-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.

Saint Petersburg is a very kid-friendly town. The beaches, waterparks, nature reserves, and entertainment centers all offer plenty of activities for families. There are plenty of places to play, laugh, and act silly around town so the whole family can have a good time. There's also the Great Explorations Children’s Museum and other educational opportunities for the young ones.

Is Playa del Carmen or Saint Petersburg Better for Couples?

Playa del Carmen is terrific for romance. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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.

Saint Petersburg is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are sunset cruises, long sandy beaches, nice restaurants, and many other romantic activities around town. You can wander down the boardwalk or enjoy nature at the gardens and nature parks around town.

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

Playa del Carmen is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination for backpackers.

Playa del Carmen is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Saint Petersburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the list for many backpackers, but budget travelers will appreciate the affordable accommodation around town.

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

Playa del Carmen is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is generally limited in Saint Petersburg. There's a bus system, but most people rely on their own car to get around.

Is Playa del Carmen or Saint Petersburg a more walkable city?

Playa del Carmen is terrific for its walkability. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

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

Saint Petersburg is generally not very walkable. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, but you really need a car to access most places.

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

Should I spend more time in Saint Petersburg or Playa del Carmen?

How long in Playa del Carmen or Saint Petersburg?

It's fun to spend time in either Playa del Carmen or Saint Petersburg. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Playa del Carmen due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Playa del Carmen, and 2-4 days is enough time in Saint Petersburg.

Families should spend more time in Playa del Carmen than Saint Petersburg. 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 Saint Petersburg. 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 Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the vibrant 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 food and shopping around the relaxed destination of Saint Petersburg. 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 coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Playa del Carmen or Saint Petersburg?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the scenic 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 shopping and museums around the fun-filled coastal city of Saint Petersburg. If you have a weekend, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the beaches. 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 Saint Petersburg?

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.

Saint Petersburg is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Saint Petersburg?

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.

Saint Petersburg is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the beaches. 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 Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Playa del Carmen or Saint Petersburg?

Saint Petersburg has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Playa del Carmen. When comparing the sizes of Playa del Carmen and Saint Petersburg, 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 Saint Petersburg?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Saint Petersburg in the Summer?

Both Saint Petersburg and Playa del Carmen during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Playa del Carmen this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Saint Petersburg for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Playa del Carmen is around the same temperature as Saint Petersburg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Playa del Carmen in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Saint Petersburg averages at about 82°F (28°C).

In Saint Petersburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Playa del Carmen. In the summer, Playa del Carmen often gets less sunshine than Saint Petersburg. Playa del Carmen gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Petersburg receives 265 hours of full sun.

Saint Petersburg gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Playa del Carmen. Playa del Carmen usually gets less rain in July than Saint Petersburg. Playa del Carmen gets 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Saint Petersburg receives 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Saint Petersburg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Playa del Carmen and Saint Petersburg. Many travelers come to Playa del Carmen for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Saint Petersburg in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In October, Playa del Carmen is generally around the same temperature as Saint Petersburg. Daily temperatures in Playa del Carmen average around 26°C (79°F), and Saint Petersburg fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Petersburg this time of the year. In Playa del Carmen, it's very sunny this time of the year. Playa del Carmen usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Saint Petersburg during autumn. Playa del Carmen gets 233 hours of sunny skies, while Saint Petersburg receives 234 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Playa del Carmen gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Playa del Carmen usually receives more rain than Saint Petersburg. Playa del Carmen gets 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Saint Petersburg receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to October is the hurricane season in Playa del Carmen. June to November is the hurricane season in Saint Petersburg.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Saint Petersburg in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Playa del Carmen as well as Saint Petersburg. Many visitors come to Playa del Carmen in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Saint Petersburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Playa del Carmen is much warmer than Saint Petersburg in the winter. The daily temperature in Playa del Carmen averages around 23°C (73°F) in January, and Saint Petersburg fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Petersburg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Playa del Carmen this time of the year. In the winter, Playa del Carmen often gets more sunshine than Saint Petersburg. Playa del Carmen gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Petersburg receives 200 hours of full sun.

Playa del Carmen usually gets less rain in January than Saint Petersburg. Playa del Carmen gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Saint Petersburg receives 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Saint Petersburg in the Spring?

Both Saint Petersburg and Playa del Carmen are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Playa del Carmen for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Saint Petersburg because of the beaches.

In the spring, Playa del Carmen is a little warmer than Saint Petersburg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Playa del Carmen in April average around 27°C (81°F), and Saint Petersburg averages at about 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Saint Petersburg. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Playa del Carmen. Playa del Carmen usually receives less sunshine than Saint Petersburg during spring. Playa del Carmen gets 259 hours of sunny skies, while Saint Petersburg receives 299 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Playa del Carmen usually receives less rain than Saint Petersburg. Playa del Carmen gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Saint Petersburg receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to October in Playa del Carmen is the hurricane season. June to November in Saint Petersburg is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Saint Petersburg and Playa del Carmen