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

Should you visit San Cristobal de Las Casas or Wisconsin Dells?

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

Should I visit San Cristobal de Las Casas or Wisconsin Dells? 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. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a fun-filled, lighthearted, and high energy city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking.

San Cristobal de Las Casas and Wisconsin Dells: 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
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in San Cristobal de Las Casas. Although San Cristobal de Las Casas and Wisconsin Dells are popular destinations, San Cristobal de Las Casas has more sights and attractions for tourists. San Cristobal de Las Casas is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Wisconsin Dells attracts visitors for its resorts and hiking. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than San Cristobal de Las Casas and is popular for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. San Cristobal de Las Casas is famous for its historical buildings, local markets, and traditional churches. It is also well known for the Cathedral of San Cristobal de las Casas.

How is San Cristobal de Las Casas different from Wisconsin Dells?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Wisconsin Dells

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options 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.

While most people don't head to Wisconsin Dells specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of art galleries in the area, but most visitors spend the majority of their time at the theme parks and waterparks.


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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Wisconsin Dells

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

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.

Wisconsin Dells is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Pizza, pasta, burgers, and steak in a family-friendly atmosphere are the most common options in the area. There are also a few fine dining restaurants as well as pubs and brunch places to choose from.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Wisconsin Dells Better for Nightlife?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Wisconsin Dells

The high quality nightlife scene is relatively similar in San Cristobal de Las Casas and Wisconsin Dells.

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.

Wisconsin Dells is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. In the evening the fun-filled atmosphere takes on a different vibe. There are bars, clubs, casinos, and shows that keep things lively throughout the evening.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Wisconsin Dells Better for Resorts?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a resort destination.

Wisconsin Dells has a handful of resorts to choose from. Many of the waterparks in the area have affiliated resorts that offer family-friendly entertainment.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a resort destination.


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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Wisconsin Dells

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a great destination for its old town. However, Wisconsin Dells does not have a historic 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.

Wisconsin Dells does not have a historic old town.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Wisconsin Dells Better for Hiking?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Wisconsin Dells

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

Wisconsin Dells is a good destination for hiking. Visitors often forget that this was originally a destination for its natural beauty. There are still many hiking trails in the area with some of the favorites found at Mirror Lake State Park, Rocky Arbor State Park, and Chimney Rock Private Park.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a hiking destination.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Wisconsin Dells

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options 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.

Wisconsin Dells has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers, as well as gift shops in the area.


Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Wisconsin Dells Better for Families?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells 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, Wisconsin Dells is a very family-friendly destination. While it used to be known for its impressive sandstone formations along the Wisconsin River, today it has a more touristy atmosphere with theme parks and amusement parks. It's also become known as the "Water Park Capital of the World", and it won't disappoint. There are both indoor and outdoor waterparks as well as train rides, boat rides, and plenty of family-friendly restaurants.

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 Wisconsin Dells Better for Couples?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Wisconsin Dells

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a great destination for its romantic activities. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Wisconsin Dells is a good town for couples to visit. There are a number of resorts with spas and romantic atmospheres. There are also wineries and plenty of entertainment options in the area.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Wisconsin Dells

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a great destination for backpackers. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a great town to visit for backpackers. 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.

Wisconsin Dells is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You'll find campgrounds in the area, but most places are very built up and don't have the natural setting that backpackers appreciate.


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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Wisconsin Dells

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a popular place for its public transit. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city 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 Wisconsin Dells. There's no real public transportation in the area.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Wisconsin Dells

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

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.

Wisconsin Dells is generally not a very walkable town. While the downtown area is walkable, you really need a car to access everything that the area has to offer.

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

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

How long in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Wisconsin Dells?

It's fun to spend time in either San Cristobal de Las Casas or Wisconsin Dells. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Wisconsin Dells due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for San Cristobal de Las Casas, and 2-4 days is enough time in Wisconsin Dells.

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

Couples should spend more time in San Cristobal de Las Casas than Wisconsin Dells. 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 Wisconsin Dells 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 Wisconsin Dells? Ideal Length of Stay
    San Cristobal de Las Casas 2-3 
    Wisconsin Dells 2-4

One day in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Wisconsin Dells?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town with plenty to do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Wisconsin Dells, many people enjoy the food and nightlife that this high energy destination offers. 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 Wisconsin Dells?

San Cristobal de Las Casas might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

In Wisconsin Dells, many people enjoy the nightlife and food 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 Wisconsin Dells?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. This town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting Wisconsin Dells. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This city offers something for everyone.

A week in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Wisconsin Dells?

Since San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the city of Wisconsin Dells. 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 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Wisconsin Dells 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 Wisconsin Dells is $142. 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 Wisconsin Dells in more detail.



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

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


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 Wisconsin Dells Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $32
    Wisconsin Dells $35

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 Wisconsin Dells?

Prices for flights to both Wisconsin Dells 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
    Wisconsin Dells $43

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in San Cristobal de Las Casas

For San Cristobal de Las Casas, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • City Tour with Dinner Pizza and Wine: $71

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $14
    Wisconsin Dells $46

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:

  • Bicycle rental - tour included: $9.00
  • Tour of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan: $19
  • Tour to Grutas de Rancho Nuevo and El Arcotete Ecotourism Park: $27
  • Rancho Nuevo Caves and Arcotete Ecotourism Center: $27
  • Montebello Lakes and Chiflon Waterfalls Tour: $28
  • Tour to San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan (Indigenous Peoples): $30
  • 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
  • Zinacantán and San Juan Chamula Tours Departing in San Cristóbal de las Casas: $38

Tours and Activities in Wisconsin Dells

Here are a few actual costs in Wisconsin Dells for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • City and History Trolley Tour in Wisconsin Dells: $24
  • Haunted Downtown Tour of Baraboo: $16
  • Haunted History Trolley Tour in Wisconsin Dells: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $30
    Wisconsin Dells $9.14


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


Which is Bigger, San Cristobal de Las Casas or Wisconsin Dells?

San Cristobal de Las Casas has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of San Cristobal de Las Casas and Wisconsin Dells, 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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