A Travel Price Comparison for Mexico San Cristobal de Las Casas vs. Isla Mujeres for Families, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit San Cristobal de Las Casas or Isla Mujeres?

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

Should I visit San Cristobal de Las Casas or Isla Mujeres? 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. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. San Cristobal de Las Casas is a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See San Cristobal de Las Casas travel costs.

Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres is a laid back, idyllic, and relaxing island. Isla Mujeres is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Isla Mujeres travel costs.

San Cristobal de Las Casas and Isla Mujeres: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for shopping


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

Both Isla Mujeres and San Cristobal de Las Casas have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. San Cristobal de Las Casas is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Isla Mujeres attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. San Cristobal de Las Casas is famous for its historical buildings, local markets, and traditional churches. Isla Mujeres is famous for its award-winning beaches, underwater marine life, and tranquil atmosphere.

How is San Cristobal de Las Casas different from Isla Mujeres?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Isla Mujeres 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 Isla Mujeres?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Isla Mujeres

San Cristobal de Las Casas is notable for its sights and museums. However, Isla Mujeres is a mediocre island for its museums and history.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around San Cristobal de Las Casas. 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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Isla Mujeres. Nobody really heads to this island for the museums.


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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Isla Mujeres

Both San Cristobal de Las Casas and Isla Mujeres offer superb local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in San Cristobal de Las Casas. 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Isla Mujeres. The island has many restaurants, particularly along Hidalgo Street in the Centro area. They typically have a laid back island vibe and serve local seafood or other popular cuisines.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Isla Mujeres Better for Nightlife?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Isla Mujeres

San Cristobal de Las Casas is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, Isla Mujeres is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its evening party scene.

San Cristobal de Las Casas has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Isla Mujeres. Many people visit the island as a day trip, but those who spend the night will enjoy hanging out at the beach bars along Playa Norte. Many have a laid back vibe and some have live music or DJs.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Isla Mujeres Better for Resorts?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Isla Mujeres

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

For the ultimate resort vacation, Isla Mujeres is a great choice. Despite its small size, there are a range of impressive resorts on the island. Accommodation ranges from affordable hostels to stunning luxury resorts.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a resort destination.


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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres 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 Isla Mujeres a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. There are many great snorkeling and diving areas just off the island. It's easy to arrange tours that will take you to the best spots. Popular areas include Manchones Reef, the Underwater Museum of Art, and Garrafon Natural Park.

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

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Isla Mujeres Better for Beaches?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres 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 Isla Mujeres. The island has spectacular beaches where the white sand meets the blue water. The idyllic setting is the perfect place to relax with a drink or soak up the island vibe. Playa Norte is an award winning beach that has calm water and stunning snorkeling. Playa Centro has many restaurants and bars, and you'll likely see people sunbathing topless. There's a beach club at Playa Albatros as well as hammocks, umbrellas, and recreational activities.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a beach destination.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Isla Mujeres

San Cristobal de Las Casas is notable for its old town. However, Isla Mujeres does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of San Cristobal de Las Casas. The town is filled with narrow pedestrian streets, colorful markets, and historic churches.

Isla Mujeres does not have a historic old town.


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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Isla Mujeres

San Cristobal de Las Casas is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Isla Mujeres is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in San Cristobal de Las Casas make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Isla Mujeres has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head downtown for the best opportunities to pick up gifts or souvenirs. You'll find local jewelry, art, and handicrafts.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Isla Mujeres More Beautiful?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Isla Mujeres

San Cristobal de Las Casas and Isla Mujeres both are comparable with their nice scenery and beauty.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a gorgeous place to visit. Set against the backdrop of mountains, this town is colorful and charming.

Isla Mujeres is a beautiful place to visit, too. Beautiful beaches with white sand and blue water make this a beautiful destination. The underwater world is also spectacular to explore.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Isla Mujeres Better for Families?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres 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, Isla Mujeres is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will love the outdoor sports, which include kayaking, surfing, cave exploration, and snorkeling or diving. There are also opportunities to get up close with marine life or spend the day playing at a water park.

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 Isla Mujeres Better for Couples?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Isla Mujeres

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

Isla Mujeres makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's a world class honeymoon destination and couples enjoy the white powdery sand beaches, turquoise blue waters, and laid back island vibe. There's diving and snorkeling as well as romantic hotels and wonderful local restaurants.

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 Isla Mujeres Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Isla Mujeres

San Cristobal de Las Casas and Isla Mujeres are both superb 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.

Isla Mujeres is a great town to visit for backpackers. There are a handful of hostels on the island that offer budget accommodation and a social atmosphere.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Isla Mujeres

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

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 Isla Mujeres, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are two bus routes around the island that are operated by Isleños Bus.


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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Isla Mujeres

San Cristobal de Las Casas is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Isla Mujeres is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around San Cristobal de Las Casas on foot. 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.

Isla Mujeres is a very walkable destination. The most walkable part of the island is the North part, which is the town center.

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

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

How long in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Isla Mujeres?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Isla Mujeres to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in San Cristobal de Las Casas than Isla Mujeres because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for San Cristobal de Las Casas, and 1-2 days is enough time in Isla Mujeres.

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

Couples should spend more time in Isla Mujeres than San Cristobal de Las Casas. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Isla Mujeres that are perfect 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 Isla Mujeres 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.


  • How many days in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Isla Mujeres? Ideal Length of Stay
    San Cristobal de Las Casas 2-3 
    Isla Mujeres 1-2

One day in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Isla Mujeres?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Isla Mujeres, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this idyllic destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people come for the beaches. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Isla Mujeres?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the shopping. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Isla Mujeres, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Isla Mujeres?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the shopping. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Isla Mujeres. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This island offers something for everyone.

A week in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Isla Mujeres?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the island of Isla Mujeres. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Mexico, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best Luxury Tours to Mexico, and The Best Budget Tours to Mexico.


Which place is cheaper, Isla Mujeres or San Cristobal de Las Casas?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • San Cristobal de Las Casas Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Isla Mujeres Prices
    Mexico Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $95
    Isla Mujeres $146

The average daily cost (per person) in San Cristobal de Las Casas is $95, while the average daily cost in Isla Mujeres is $146. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for San Cristobal de Las Casas and Isla Mujeres in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $37
    Isla Mujeres $63
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $74
    Isla Mujeres $126
Compare Hotels in San Cristobal de Las Casas and Isla Mujeres

Looking for a hotel in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Isla Mujeres? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in San Cristobal de Las Casas


Hotels in Isla Mujeres


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: San Cristobal de Las Casas Hotel Prices and Isla Mujeres Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $26
    Isla Mujeres $28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in San Cristobal de Las Casas

Also for San Cristobal de Las Casas, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Transfer Hotel in San Cristobal de las Casas to TGZ Airport: $46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Isla Mujeres

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Isla Mujeres:

  • Private Transfer: Playa Mujeres to Cancun Airport CUN in SUV: $126
  • Cancún: Isla Mujeres Round - Trip Ferry with Transfer : $75

Is it cheaper to fly into San Cristobal de Las Casas or Isla Mujeres?

Prices for flights to both Isla Mujeres and San Cristobal de Las Casas change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $33
    Isla Mujeres $65

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $12
    Isla Mujeres $17

Tours and Activities in San Cristobal de Las Casas

For San Cristobal de Las Casas, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • City Tour Walk through San Cristobal: $20
  • Rancho Nuevo Caves and Arcotete Ecotourism Center: $23
  • Tour of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan: $25
  • Sumidero Canyon Tour: $29
  • Tour Sumidero Canyon and Magic Town of Chiapa de Corzo: $33
  • Tour to San Juan Chamula & Zinacantan Indian communities: $35
  • Maya Cultural Tour From San Cristobal: Chamula, Zinacantan: $38
  • Montebello Lakes and Chiflon Waterfalls Tour: $48
  • Tour to the Viewpoints, Sumidero Canyon and Chiapa de Corzo: $56
  • Tour to the Chiflón Waterfalls and Montebello Lagoons: $57
  • Full Day Tour of Montebello Lakes and El Chiflon Waterfall: $60
  • Bike Tour Chiapas Indigenous Peoples: $62

Tours and Activities in Isla Mujeres

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Isla Mujeres are as follows:

  • Romantic tour in Isla Mujeres: $126
  • Scuba Diving Adventure WITHOUT CERTIFICATION! Try it today!: $185
  • “ Tour in Isla Mujeres “ Transparent boat ride: $40
  • 3 Hours VIP Semiprivate Tour Isla Mujeres Full Snorkeling Experience : $84
  • Cancun: Full-Day Catamaran Cruise to Isla Mujeres: $90
  • Contoy Island Tour from Cancun and Isla Mujeres with Snorkeling: $130
  • Crystal Boat Tour to Isla Mujeres and Reefs: $35
  • Discover the beautiful Isla Mujeres Transparent Boat Tour: $33
  • From Cancún: Isla Mujeres Sunset Catamaran Cruise: $63
  • From Riviera Maya: Isla Contoy & Isla Mujeres Full-Day Tour: $163
  • Isla Contoy Snorkeling Experience with Buffet: $166
  • Isla Mujeres Snorkeling Adventure at the Underwater Museum: $47

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $24
    Isla Mujeres $20


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between San Cristobal de Las Casas and Isla Mujeres, we can see that Isla Mujeres 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 Isla Mujeres would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Isla Mujeres 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 Isla Mujeres Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, San Cristobal de Las Casas or Isla Mujeres?

San Cristobal de Las Casas has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Isla Mujeres. When comparing the sizes of San Cristobal de Las Casas and Isla Mujeres, 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.