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

Should you visit San Cristobal de Las Casas or Washington?

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

Should I visit San Cristobal de Las Casas or Washington? 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. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Washington

Washington is a diverse, active, and monument-filled city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

San Cristobal de Las Casas and Washington: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Washington than San Cristobal de Las Casas, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Washington is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, music, hiking, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while San Cristobal de Las Casas is known for its historical sights, shopping, and small town charm. San Cristobal de Las Casas is popular for its historical buildings, local markets, and traditional churches. Washington is popular for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. It is also home to The Washington Monument and the White House.

How is San Cristobal de Las Casas different from Washington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Washington is very popular for its museums and history. Also, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Washington from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

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.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Washington Better for Theater?

Washington is a very popular place for theatre. However, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Washington. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a theatre destination.

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

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

For foodies, Washington is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

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

The great nightlife scene is relatively similar in San Cristobal de Las Casas and Washington.

San Cristobal de Las Casas has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Washington is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Washington Better for Music?

Washington is a popular place for live music. However, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Washington is active and vibrant. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a live music destination.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas is great for its historic old town. However, Washington 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.

Washington does not have a historic old town.

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

Washington is a decent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a hiking destination.

Washington has hiking trails if you want to get outside. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a hiking destination.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in San Cristobal de Las Casas. 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.

Washington is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Washington Better for Christmas?

Washington is very popular for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, San Cristobal de Las Casas does not offer Christmas activities.

Washington offers plenty of sights and activities around Christmas. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

San Cristobal de Las Casas does not offer Christmas activities.

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

Washington 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.

Washington is a very family-friendly destination. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

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 Washington Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both San Cristobal de Las Casas and Washington make for a great place to visit.

San Cristobal de Las Casas makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Couples visit Washington frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Washington is not a good destination 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.

Washington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it is an international travel destination, the city often isn't at the top of most backpacker's lists. There are some affordable accommodation options available though if you know where to look.

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

Washington is very popular for its student-friendly activities. However, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Washington. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not popular with students.

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

Washington is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Washington has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

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.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas and Washington are world-class when it comes to walkability.

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.

Getting around Washington on foot is easy. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

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

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

How long in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Washington?

Both San Cristobal de Las Casas and Washington have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Washington than in San Cristobal de Las Casas. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for San Cristobal de Las Casas, and 3-7 days is enough time in Washington.

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

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

One day in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Washington?

San Cristobal de Las Casas might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Each neighborhood in Washington has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Washington?

Even though San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Each neighborhood in Washington has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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 Washington?

San Cristobal de Las Casas, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Each neighborhood in Washington has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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 Washington?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Each neighborhood in Washington has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. 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 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas and Washington, we can see that Washington 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 Washington would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Washington 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 Washington Expensive?.

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

Washington 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 Washington, 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.