A Travel Price Comparison for Mexico San Cristobal de Las Casas vs. Cancun for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit San Cristobal de Las Casas or Cancun?

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

Should I visit San Cristobal de Las Casas or Cancun? 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.

San Cristobal de Las Casas

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a cultural, charming, and colorful town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Cancun

Cancun is a party-hard, tropical, and active 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.

San Cristobal de Las Casas and Cancun: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Cancun?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cancun than San Cristobal de Las Casas. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Cancun is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while San Cristobal de Las Casas attracts visitors for its food, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Cancun is more touristy than San Cristobal de Las Casas 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 . San Cristobal de Las Casas is famous for its historical buildings, local markets, and traditional churches.

How is San Cristobal de Las Casas different from Cancun?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Cancun?

Spend time exploring the great sights and museums in either San Cristobal de Las Casas or Cancun.

San Cristobal de Las Casas offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The town is filled with historical churches such as the main Cathedral of San Cristobal. While this is the most notable church, there are also smaller churches worth visiting like the Templo Santo Domingo, Iglesia de Guadalupe, and Iglesia de San Cristobal. For museums, make sure you check out the Centro de Textiles del Mundo Maya, Na Bolom, and Museo de Ambar.

Many visitors head to Cancun specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas or Cancun? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Cancun is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

San Cristobal de Las Casas has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The cuisine is a mix of Spanish-influenced cured meats such as ham and sausage, as well as indigenous flavors like tamales and burritos. There's also a lot of great pizza around town as well as several Asian restaurants.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Cancun area. 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas or Cancun Better for Nightlife?

Cancun is very popular for nightlife. Also, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There's an active nightlife scene that includes everything from late night clubs to salsa lessons. Most tourists who want to party head to the pedestrian streets around the plaza. There are countless bars where you'll likely find a crowd late into the night. Some clubs have a cover charge on weekends but, in general, drinks are cheap and getting around is easy.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Cancun Better for Resorts?

Cancun is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Cancun is a great 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.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a resort destination.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Cancun Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cancun is very popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Cancun a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. 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.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Cancun Better for Beaches?

Cancun is very popular for its beaches. However, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Cancun. 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.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a beach destination.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Cancun Better for its Old Town?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a very popular place for its old town. However, Cancun does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of San Cristobal de Las Casas. The town is filled with narrow pedestrian streets, colorful markets, and historic churches.

Cancun does not have a historic old town.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Cancun Better for Hiking?

Cancun is a popular place for its hiking trails. However, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a hiking destination.

Cancun is a good destination for hiking. There are some beautiful walking paths and hiking trails that are within the area.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Cancun?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Cancun is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, San Cristobal de Las Casas draws large crowds to its stores. The nearby villages are famous for their weaving, leather, pottery, and embroidery, so many visitors pick up souvenirs at the colorful markets around town. This is one of the best towns in Mexico to purchase local items, and you should definitely set aside time to explore and shop.

Many visitors go to Cancun to go shopping. While most people visit for the beaches and nightlife, there are shopping malls and markets where you can enjoy some retail therapy.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Cancun Better for Families?

Cancun is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Cancun is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in San Cristobal de Las Casas. While kids may not appreciate the town's beauty and culture, they will have fun exploring the night market or taking a chocolate-making class. There are pedestrian streets where everyone can explore without fear of traffic and pizza restaurants that appeal to the kids as well.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Cancun Better for Couples?

Cancun is very popular for romance. Also, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Cancun makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Couples visit San Cristobal de Las Casas frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy culture, markets, traditional cuisines, and new experiences will love their time here. It's a fun place to simply wander. You can explore the markets and then eat at a local restaurant before making your way back to your boutique hotel.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Cancun Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Cristobal de Las Casas and Cancun are both great destinations for backpackers.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a number of hostels in town as well as budget-friendly hotels. Backpackers love the laid back nature of this town as well as the many markets and nature-oriented activities.

Cancun is a great town to visit for backpackers. 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.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Cancun Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find nice public transit in both San Cristobal de Las Casas and Cancun.

San Cristobal de Las Casas has some public transit options. Urbano buses are minibuses that connect the town to the outlying residential areas. There are also colectivos that travel to nearby villages.

You'll find some public transit in Cancun, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The buses are an efficient way to get around. They stop along Boulevard Kukulcán and throughout the downtown.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Cancun a more walkable city?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Cancun is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in San Cristobal de Las Casas. Walking is the best way to experience the town. Most of the sights can be reached on foot and there are pedestrian-only streets that let you avoid the traffic.

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

For even more information, also check out Is San Cristobal de Las Casas Worth Visiting? and Is Cancun Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cancun or San Cristobal de Las Casas?

How long in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Cancun?

Both San Cristobal de Las Casas 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for San Cristobal de Las Casas, and 4-7 days is enough time in Cancun.

Families should spend more time in Cancun than San Cristobal de Las Casas. 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas. 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.

One day in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Cancun?

San Cristobal de Las Casas might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Cancun, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this adventurous destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Cancun?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the shopping, 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.

In Cancun, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this beautiful destination offers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Cancun?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Cristobal de Las Casas. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

In Cancun, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this tropical destination offers. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This city offers something for everyone.

A week in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Cancun?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

In Cancun, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this beautiful city offers. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Mexico City, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Playa del Carmen, The Best 2-Week Tours from Cancun, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico.

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

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

Which is Bigger, San Cristobal de Las Casas or Cancun?

Cancun has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of San Cristobal de Las Casas. When comparing the sizes of San Cristobal de Las Casas 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.