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

Should you visit San Cristobal de Las Casas or Lewisburg?

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

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

Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a quaint, charming, and historical town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping and museums.

San Cristobal de Las Casas and Lewisburg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Cristobal de Las Casas. Although San Cristobal de Las Casas and Lewisburg are both popular with visitors, San Cristobal de Las Casas has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. San Cristobal de Las Casas is more touristy than Lewisburg 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. Lewisburg is popular for its historical charm and friendly personality.

How is San Cristobal de Las Casas different from Lewisburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Lewisburg

San Cristobal de Las Casas is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Lewisburg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several cultural and historical museums in town as well as a fun children's museum.


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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Lewisburg

San Cristobal de Las Casas is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Lewisburg. There are bistros and cafes as well as all the standard chain restaurants.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Lewisburg Better for Nightlife?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Lewisburg

San Cristobal de Las Casas is well known for nightlife. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

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.

Lewisburg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. While there are some bars, most people don't come here for the nightlife.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Lewisburg

San Cristobal de Las Casas is well known for its historic old town. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting San Cristobal de Las Casas. The town is filled with narrow pedestrian streets, colorful markets, and historic churches.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Lewisburg. There are a huge number of historical buildings in the downtown area that contribute to the town's charm and character.


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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Lewisburg

San Cristobal de Las Casas is an amazing town to visit for shopping. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lewisburg. There are some quaint local shops that sell local items and unique art works.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Lewisburg

Kids will enjoy a visit to either San Cristobal de Las Casas or Lewisburg.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a family-friendly town. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Lewisburg. The Lewisburg Children's Museum is worth checking out, as is Reptiland and the many different indoor and outdoor play areas.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Lewisburg

San Cristobal de Las Casas is well known for romance. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known 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.

Most people don't think of Lewisburg as a couple's destination. There are several quaint inns and beautiful gardens that you can explore. There are also spas and restaurants where you can enjoy a nice meal.


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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Lewisburg

San Cristobal de Las Casas is well known for backpackers. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known 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.

Lewisburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the radar for most backpackers.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Lewisburg Better for Students?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Lewisburg

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

Plenty of students visit Lewisburg. Many students enjoy living here while they attend Bucknell University.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not popular with students.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Lewisburg

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a popular place for its public transit. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known 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 mostly limited in Lewisburg. Public transportation in the area is limited.


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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Lewisburg

San Cristobal de Las Casas is an amazing town to visit for its walkability. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Lewisburg is a somewhat walkable place. It's small with a relatively compact downtown.

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

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

How long in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Lewisburg?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Lewisburg to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in San Cristobal de Las Casas than Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg.

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

Couples should spend more time in San Cristobal de Las Casas than Lewisburg. 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 Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg? Ideal Length of Stay
    San Cristobal de Las Casas 2-3 
    Lewisburg 1-2

One day in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Lewisburg?

Even though San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

In Lewisburg, many people enjoy the museums and shopping that this quaint destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Lewisburg?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Lewisburg, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. 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 Lewisburg?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many people enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting Lewisburg. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This town offers something for everyone.

A week in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Lewisburg?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the town of Lewisburg. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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 Contiki Tours to United States of America, and The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America.


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

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in San Cristobal de Las Casas is $101, while the average daily cost in Lewisburg is $136. 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 Lewisburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $47
    Lewisburg $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $94
    Lewisburg $140
Compare Hotels in San Cristobal de Las Casas and Lewisburg

Looking for a hotel in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Lewisburg? 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 Lewisburg


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $32
    Lewisburg $53

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: $51

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

Prices for flights to both Lewisburg 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 $23
    Lewisburg $34

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $14
    Lewisburg $18

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:

  • Tour of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan: $19
  • Rancho Nuevo Caves and Arcotete Ecotourism Center: $27
  • Montebello Lakes and Chiflon Waterfalls Tour: $28
  • Chamula and Zinacantan Indigenous Villages Tour: $30
  • Tour to the Chiflón Waterfalls and Montebello Lagoons: $33
  • Tour Sumidero Canyon and Magic Town of Chiapa de Corzo: $35
  • Sumidero Canyon Tour: $36
  • Tour to the Viewpoints, Sumidero Canyon and Chiapa de Corzo: $37
  • Sumidero Canyon and Chiapa de Corzo Combo Tour: $42
  • Full Day Tour of Montebello Lakes and El Chiflon Waterfall: $45
  • Tour to San Juan Chamula & Zinacantan Indian communities: $46
  • Agua Azul, Misol Hà Waterfalls and Palenque Ruins Tour: $48

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $30
    Lewisburg $12


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


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

San Cristobal de Las Casas has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Lewisburg. When comparing the sizes of San Cristobal de Las Casas and Lewisburg, 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.

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