A Travel Price Comparison for Mexico Tulum vs. Acapulco de Juarez for Attractions, Nightlife, Resorts, and Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

Should you visit Tulum or Acapulco de Juarez?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Tulum and Acapulco de Juarez can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Tulum

Tulum is a active, lively, and ancient town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Acapulco de Juarez

Acapulco de Juarez is a built-up, well-known, and vibrant city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Tulum and Acapulco de Juarez: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tulum or Acapulco de Juarez?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Tulum than Acapulco de Juarez, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Tulum is more touristy than Acapulco de Juarez and is known for its archeological sights, beautiful beaches, and dramatic cenotes. Also, Tulum is famous for the Tulum archeological ruins. Acapulco de Juarez is well known for its large hotels, golf courses, and lively bars and clubs.

How is Tulum different from Acapulco de Juarez?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Acapulco de Juarez and Tulum. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tulum or Acapulco de Juarez?

Tulum is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. However, Acapulco de Juarez is a city with minimal options for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Tulum on the map. It's famous for its world-renowned archeological ruins. The Tulum Archeological Site is very popular for its Mayan temples and castles. You can also travel a bit further to see the Cobá Ruins.

While most people don't head to Acapulco de Juarez specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of history and cultural museums in the city that can be a nice way to spend a rainy day.

Is the Food Better in Tulum or Acapulco de Juarez? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tulum is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Acapulco de Juarez is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Tulum is an experience not to be missed. Despite being well established as a top tourist destination in Mexico, you'll still find authentic and delicious local cuisine. Favorite dishes around town include the ceviche, tacos al pastor, and sopa de lima (chicken soup).

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Acapulco de Juarez. The local cuisine is influenced by the area's indigenous cultures combined with Hispanic influences. Seafood is common as well.

Is Tulum or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Nightlife?

Both Tulum and Acapulco de Juarez are terrific when it comes to partying.

Tulum is a must-see party destination. It's world renowned for its wild nightlife scene and you'll find iconic beach parties, jungle raves, and trendy Tuluminati parties. Most of the local places that are a bit more affordable are in town, and the more touristy and expensive places are around the Middle Beach Zone.

Acapulco de Juarez is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The nightlife scene is part of what originally put this city on the map. Spring break is a prime time for partying and you'll find many bars along Costera Street, with the liveliest around Condesa Beach.

Is Tulum or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Resorts?

If luxury resorts are your style, both Tulum and Acapulco de Juarez have terrific options.

Tulum is a world class resort vacation destination. If you're on a budget, you can stay in town for a more reasonable price, but if you want a classic beach vacation, head to the Zona Hotelera stretch along the coast. There are luxury hotels as well as resorts with beachfront pools and luxury restaurants.

Vacationers flock to Acapulco de Juarez for its luxury resorts. You'll find no shortage of resorts in the city, most with large pools and beachfront views.

Is Tulum or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tulum is an unbeatable place for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Acapulco de Juarez is still popular, but not quite as popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Tulum a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. The water along the coast is shallow and clear, which is perfect for snorkeling. There are also dive trips that take you a short distance out to diverse and beautiful reefs.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Acapulco de Juarez. There are plenty of dive shops that offer snorkeling and scuba diving trips to premier spots.

Is Tulum or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Beaches?

Tulum is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Acapulco de Juarez is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Tulum. World class beaches with turquoise water and long stretches of sand make this a true beach-lovers paradise. Playa Paraíso is a favorite beach in the area and many consider it among the most beautiful beaches in Mexico.

Acapulco de Juarez is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The beaches are well developed with restaurants, hotels and bars lining the long stretches of sand. You'll find all kinds of water sports and activities nearby and several of the most popular beaches include Condesa Beach, Caleta Beach, and Icacos Beach.

Is Tulum or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Hiking?

Tulum is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Acapulco de Juarez is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Tulum. There are coastal walks and routes that take you through the jungle or by archeological ruins. There are many places where you can enjoy a stroll through nature.

Acapulco de Juarez is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tulum or Acapulco de Juarez?

Tulum is a great destination for its shopping areas. Also, Acapulco de Juarez is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Tulum. Quirky souvenir shops, local artisan boutiques, and colorful bazaars make shopping a fun experience. Make sure you check out Mercado Maya or the Tulum Bazaar while you're in town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Acapulco de Juarez. You'll find tons of beachside shops where you can pick up any beach supplies you may need as well as souvenirs from your trip. The city also has retail outlets and shopping centers.

Is Tulum or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Families?

Both Tulum and Acapulco de Juarez are excellent to visit with kids.

Tulum is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the beaches and archeological sights as much as adults. You can also visit a cenote or see the sea turtles at Akumal Bay. If you're open to getting out of town, there are many adventure parks in the area as well.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Acapulco de Juarez is very family-friendly. It may have been made famous by spring breakers, but families with kids will find plenty to do as well. There are water parks, playgrounds, museums and, of course, the beach.

Is Tulum or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Couples?

Both Tulum and Acapulco de Juarez are terrific destinations for a couple's getaway.

Tulum is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Beautiful beaches, world famous archeological sights, and a wild nightlife scene make this a great honeymoon or couple's destination. There are also spas, cenotes, and even cooking classes that you can take together.

Acapulco de Juarez is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Whether you're looking for an active nightlife scene, or romantic sunset walks, then this city has it all. The beach is active and beautiful, there are also botanical gardens and wonderful restaurants to experience.

Is Tulum or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tulum is a great destination for backpackers. However, Acapulco de Juarez is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Tulum is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. It's no longer an undiscovered backpacker paradise, but there are still affordable options in the area and there's a great nightlife scene.

Acapulco de Juarez is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are more hotels and resorts than hostels, so most backpackers head elsewhere. There is a young crowd during the spring break season.

Is Tulum or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Tulum and Acapulco de Juarez offer notable public transit options.

Tulum has a few public transit options. There are shared vans, Collectivos, that provide transportation through the area. The Tiburon is also a local bus that runs along the coastline.

Acapulco de Juarez has some public transit options. There's an elaborate and fun bus system that travels around the city.

Is Tulum or Acapulco de Juarez a more walkable city?

Tulum is a great destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Acapulco de Juarez is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Tulum is a very walkable destination. It's easy to walk around downtown Tulum and explore on foot.

Acapulco de Juarez is somewhat walkable. The downtown and beachfront areas are the most walkable and many sights are within a short distance of each other.

For even more information, also check out Is Tulum Worth Visiting? and Is Acapulco de Juarez Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Acapulco de Juarez or Tulum?

How long in Tulum or Acapulco de Juarez?

In either Tulum or Acapulco de Juarez, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Tulum has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Tulum than Acapulco de Juarez. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Tulum than Acapulco de Juarez. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Tulum that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tulum than Acapulco de Juarez 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 Tulum.

One day in Tulum or Acapulco de Juarez?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the lively destination of Tulum. This town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Acapulco de Juarez, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this built-up destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the nightlife. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Tulum or Acapulco de Juarez?

Tulum is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the ancient town of Tulum. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Acapulco de Juarez. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tulum or Acapulco de Juarez?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Tulum. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tulum has to offer.

Acapulco de Juarez is a fun place to experience. In Acapulco de Juarez, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the nightlife. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Tulum or Acapulco de Juarez?

Tulum is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It offers something for everyone. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the vibrant destination of Acapulco de Juarez. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, The Best Historical Tours in Mexico, The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tulum and Acapulco de Juarez, we can see that Tulum is more expensive. And not only is Acapulco de Juarez much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Acapulco de Juarez would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Acapulco de Juarez 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 Tulum would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Tulum than you might in Acapulco de Juarez.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Tulum Expensive? and Is Acapulco de Juarez Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Tulum or Acapulco de Juarez?

Acapulco de Juarez has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Tulum. When comparing the sizes of Tulum and Acapulco de Juarez, 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.

When is the best time to visit Tulum or Acapulco de Juarez?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Tulum or Acapulco de Juarez in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tulum and Acapulco de Juarez. Many travelers come to Tulum for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Acapulco de Juarez in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Tulum is generally around the same temperature as Acapulco de Juarez. Daily temperatures in Tulum average around 28°C (83°F), and Acapulco de Juarez fluctuates around 29°C (83°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Acapulco de Juarez this time of the year. In Tulum, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tulum usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Acapulco de Juarez during summer. Tulum gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Acapulco de Juarez receives 224 hours of full sun in the summer.

Acapulco de Juarez receives a lot of rain in the summer. Tulum gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Tulum usually receives less rain than Acapulco de Juarez. Tulum gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Acapulco de Juarez receives 209 mm (8.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tulum or Acapulco de Juarez in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Tulum as well as Acapulco de Juarez. Many visitors come to Tulum in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Acapulco de Juarez for the shopping scene during these months.

Tulum is around the same temperature as Acapulco de Juarez in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tulum averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Acapulco de Juarez fluctuates around 28°C (83°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Acapulco de Juarez. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tulum this time of the year. In the autumn, Tulum often gets less sunshine than Acapulco de Juarez. Tulum gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Acapulco de Juarez receives 245 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Acapulco de Juarez. Tulum receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Tulum usually gets more rain in October than Acapulco de Juarez. Tulum gets 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain, while Acapulco de Juarez receives 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Tulum is the dry season. June to October in Tulum is the rainy season. Keep in mind that June to October is the hurricane season in Tulum.

Should I visit Tulum or Acapulco de Juarez in the Winter?

Both Acapulco de Juarez and Tulum are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Tulum for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Acapulco de Juarez because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Tulum is cooler than Acapulco de Juarez. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tulum in January average around 23°C (74°F), and Acapulco de Juarez averages at about 26°C (79°F).

It's quite sunny in Acapulco de Juarez. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tulum. Tulum usually receives less sunshine than Acapulco de Juarez during winter. Tulum gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Acapulco de Juarez receives 272 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tulum usually receives more rain than Acapulco de Juarez. Tulum gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Acapulco de Juarez receives 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tulum or Acapulco de Juarez in the Spring?

Both Acapulco de Juarez and Tulum during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Tulum because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches are the main draw to Acapulco de Juarez this time of year.

In April, Tulum is generally around the same temperature as Acapulco de Juarez. Daily temperatures in Tulum average around 27°C (81°F), and Acapulco de Juarez fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

In Acapulco de Juarez, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tulum. In the spring, Tulum often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Acapulco de Juarez. Tulum gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Acapulco de Juarez receives 274 hours of full sun.

Tulum usually gets more rain in April than Acapulco de Juarez. Tulum gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Acapulco de Juarez receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Tulum. June to October is the rainy season in Tulum. Also, June to October in Tulum is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Acapulco de Juarez and Tulum