A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers San Cristobal de Las Casas vs. Colorado Springs for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit San Cristobal de Las Casas or Colorado Springs?

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

Should I visit San Cristobal de Las Casas 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.

San Cristobal de Las Casas

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a colorful, cultural, and charming town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a friendly, outdoorsy, and healthy mountain town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and museums.

San Cristobal de Las Casas and Colorado Springs: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will generally find more things to do in San Cristobal de Las Casas than Colorado Springs. While Colorado Springs is larger than San Cristobal de Las Casas, San Cristobal de Las Casas has more sights and attractions for tourists. San Cristobal de Las Casas is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Colorado Springs is known for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. San Cristobal de Las Casas is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is popular for its historical buildings, local markets, and traditional churches. It is also home to the Cathedral of San Cristobal de las Casas. Colorado Springs is popular for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views.

How is San Cristobal de Las Casas different from Colorado Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Colorado Springs Better for Skiing?

Colorado Springs is a decent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a skiing destination.

Locals like to visit Colorado Springs to take advantage of their winter sports. The town isn't as accessible to skiing as Denver is, but there are still options, like Breckenridge, within a few hours drive.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a skiing destination.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Many visitors head to San Cristobal de Las Casas specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Colorado Springs offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

Is the Food Better in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Colorado Springs? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, San Cristobal de Las Casas makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Colorado Springs has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas or Colorado Springs Better for Nightlife?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in San Cristobal de Las Casas know how to have a good time. 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.

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 San Cristobal de Las Casas or Colorado Springs Better for its Old Town?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a great destination for its historic old town. However, Colorado Springs 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.

Colorado Springs does not have a historic old town.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Colorado Springs Better for Hiking?

Colorado Springs is very popular for its hiking trails. However, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a hiking destination.

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.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a hiking destination.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas is terrific for shopping. However, Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Colorado Springs Better for Families?

Colorado Springs is a very popular place 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.

Colorado Springs is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

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 Colorado Springs Better for Couples?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a great destination for romance. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

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 San Cristobal de Las Casas or Colorado Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit San Cristobal de Las Casas. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Colorado Springs. 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas or Colorado Springs Better for Students?

Colorado Springs is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not popular with students.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not popular with students.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Urbano buses are minibuses that connect the town to the outlying residential areas. There are also colectivos that travel to nearby villages.

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 San Cristobal de Las Casas or Colorado Springs a more walkable city?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is terrific for its walkability. However, Colorado Springs is a mountain town with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Getting around San Cristobal de Las Casas on foot is easy. 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.

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 San Cristobal de Las Casas Worth Visiting? and Is Colorado Springs Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Colorado Springs?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both San Cristobal de Las Casas and Colorado Springs. In our opinion, San Cristobal de Las Casas has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in San Cristobal de Las Casas than Colorado Springs. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in San Cristobal de Las Casas than Colorado Springs. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in San Cristobal de Las Casas that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Cristobal de Las Casas 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas.

One day in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Colorado Springs?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. 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 town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Colorado Springs, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this friendly destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Colorado Springs?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town with plenty to do. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. 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 shopping. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Colorado Springs, many people enjoy the food and museums that this beautiful destination offers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Colorado Springs?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Colorado Springs. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This mountain town offers something for everyone.

A week in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Colorado Springs?

San Cristobal de Las Casas 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 shopping. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful mountain town of Colorado Springs. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Lots of people come 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Mexico City, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Playa del Carmen, 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas and Colorado Springs, we can see that Colorado Springs 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 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 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 Colorado Springs Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, San Cristobal de Las Casas or Colorado Springs?

Colorado Springs has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of San Cristobal de Las Casas. When comparing the sizes of San Cristobal de Las Casas 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.