A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tulum vs. Atlanta for Attractions, Nightlife, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Tulum or Atlanta?

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 Atlanta 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 ancient, archeological, and tropical town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Atlanta

Atlanta is a sprawling, suburban, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Tulum and Atlanta: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tulum or Atlanta?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Tulum than Atlanta, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Tulum is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Atlanta is more popular for its shopping and big city activities. Tulum is more touristy than Atlanta and is popular for its archeological sights, beautiful beaches, and dramatic cenotes. Also, Tulum is famous for the Tulum archeological ruins. Atlanta is well known for its world class aquarium, its role as host of the 1996 Olympic Games, and its influence during the Civil Rights Movement.

How is Tulum different from Atlanta?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Tulum and Atlanta have first-rate landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Tulum that are not to be missed. 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.

The museums and tourist attractions in Atlanta are world-renowned. The museums range in topic from history to science and art. The country's largest aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium, is in Atlanta as well. It's home to whale sharks, stingrays, and a diversity of marine life. Other museums around town include the Atlanta History Center, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, the High Museum of Art, the World of Coca Cola, the David J. Sencer CDC Museum, and the Delta Flight Museum. There are also many monuments and sites including the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

Is the Food Better in Tulum or Atlanta? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Tulum and Atlanta.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Tulum makes for a great culinary experience. 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).

Atlanta has a huge number of terrific restaurants. It's a huge city with a wide selection of restaurants including international, local, and classic southern styles. Fried chicken, biscuits, diner food, and barbecue are all popular. For a classic southern breakfast check out The OK Cafe and for a quintessential Atlanta experience go to The Varsity.

Is Tulum or Atlanta Better for Nightlife?

Tulum is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

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.

Atlanta offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is diverse with trendy bars, dance clubs, and huge music halls. There are a number of neighborhoods that each have their own atmosphere. For some of the best nightlife check out the upscale bars in Buckhead, the music venues in Midtown, the hipster vibe in Edgewood, or the laid-back atmosphere in Virginia Highland.

Is Tulum or Atlanta Better for Resorts?

Tulum is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Atlanta is not a resort destination.

Tulum offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Atlanta is not a resort destination.

Is Tulum or Atlanta Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tulum is terrific for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Atlanta is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Tulum specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. 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.

Atlanta is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tulum or Atlanta Better for Beaches?

Tulum is terrific for the beach. However, Atlanta is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Tulum are among the best in the world. 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.

Atlanta is not a beach destination.

Is Tulum or Atlanta Better for Hiking?

Tulum is a great town for hiking. However, Atlanta is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Tulum for the hiking trails. 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.

Atlanta is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tulum or Atlanta?

Atlanta is terrific for shopping. Also, Tulum is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Atlanta is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are a number of great shopping districts around town. Atlantic Station is popular with a movie theater and ice skating. Buckhead has boutique and local vendors and Lenox Square has a large shopping mall.

Tulum is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Is Tulum or Atlanta Better for Families?

Both Tulum and Atlanta are high quality 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, Atlanta is very family-friendly. There is no shortage of playgrounds around town, but a highlight of any trip is a visit to the Georgia Aquarium. It's the largest aquarium in the United States and its home to whale sharks, hammerheads, dolphin shows, and more. It is so much more than just an aquarium, and it truly is a not to be missed experience. Also worth a visit are Zoo Atlanta, the Center of Puppetry Arts, Stone Mountain, Fernbank Museum of Natural History, and the Lego Discovery Center. If you have the chance to see the Atlanta Braves play, that's also a rewarding experience.

Is Tulum or Atlanta Better for Couples?

Tulum is terrific for couples. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Tulum has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Atlanta is a nice destination for couples. It's a big city, so there are a number of date night activities available such as orchestra concerts, theater shows, and fine dining. The city also has many outdoor areas like Lake Lanier and Piedmont Park. The Georgia Aquarium is world class, and there are other amazing museums around town as well.

Is Tulum or Atlanta Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tulum is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Tulum. It's no longer an undiscovered backpacker paradise, but there are still affordable options in the area and there's a great nightlife scene.

Atlanta is a good town to visit for backpackers. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, there are actually a couple of hostels around town and a surprising number of activities worth experiencing. The city's large airport make it a convenient entry point for international travelers.

Is Tulum or Atlanta Better for Students?

Atlanta is a well-known place for students. However, Tulum is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Atlanta. There are a number of universities in town such as Emory, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and Morehouse College. The city is sprawling, but it's also full of entertainment and activities that students will enjoy.

Tulum is not popular with students.

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

Tulum is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Atlanta is not known for its public transit.

While Tulum offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are shared vans, Collectivos, that provide transportation through the area. The Tiburon is also a local bus that runs along the coastline.

Public transit is generally limited in Atlanta. For such a large city, the public transportation system is very limited. MARTA is the main transit authority and there are a few subway lines that cross the city as well as bus routes running around town.

Is Tulum or Atlanta a more walkable city?

Tulum is a great town for its ease of walking around. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

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

Atlanta is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are walkable, but most of the sights are spread out and require a car to access. Within neighborhoods, there are a few places that are more pedestrian-friendly such as Downtown, Midtown, Virginia Highlands, and Buckhead.

For even more information, also check out Is Tulum Worth Visiting? and Is Atlanta Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Atlanta or Tulum?

How long in Tulum or Atlanta?

It's fun to spend time in either Tulum or Atlanta. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Tulum due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Tulum, and 2-4 days is enough time in Atlanta.

Families should spend more time in Tulum than Atlanta. 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 Atlanta. 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 Atlanta 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 Atlanta?

In Tulum, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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

In Tulum, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Atlanta. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tulum or Atlanta?

Tulum is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tulum has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Atlanta is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the big city destination of Atlanta. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tulum or Atlanta?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tulum. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Tulum. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food and shopping around the diverse big city of Atlanta. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Tulum or Atlanta?

Atlanta has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Tulum. When comparing the sizes of Tulum and Atlanta, 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 Atlanta?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Tulum or Atlanta in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Tulum as well as Atlanta. Most visitors come to Tulum for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Atlanta because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Tulum is generally around the same temperature as Atlanta. Daily temperatures in Tulum average around 28°C (83°F), and Atlanta fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Atlanta. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tulum this time of the year. In the summer, Tulum often gets less sunshine than Atlanta. Tulum gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atlanta receives 271 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Atlanta. Tulum receives a lot of rain in the summer. Tulum usually gets more rain in July than Atlanta. Tulum gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Atlanta receives 5.2 inches (133 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tulum or Atlanta in the Autumn?

Both Atlanta and Tulum are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Tulum because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Atlanta this time of year.

Tulum is a little warmer than Atlanta in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tulum averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Atlanta fluctuates around 66°F (19°C).

It's quite sunny in Atlanta. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tulum. Tulum usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Atlanta during autumn. Tulum gets 216 hours of sunny skies, while Atlanta receives 222 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Tulum. In October, Tulum usually receives more rain than Atlanta. Tulum gets 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain, while Atlanta receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Tulum is November to April. The rainy season in Tulum is June to October. The hurricane season in Tulum is June to October.

Should I visit Tulum or Atlanta in the Winter?

Both Atlanta and Tulum during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Tulum this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Atlanta for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Tulum is much warmer than Atlanta. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tulum in January average around 23°C (74°F), and Atlanta averages at about 45°F (7°C).

It's quite sunny in Tulum. In the winter, Tulum often gets more sunshine than Atlanta. Tulum gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atlanta receives 164 hours of full sun.

Atlanta gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Tulum usually gets less rain in January than Atlanta. Tulum gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Atlanta receives 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tulum or Atlanta in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Tulum and Atlanta. Many travelers come to Tulum for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Atlanta in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Tulum is generally a little warmer than Atlanta. Daily temperatures in Tulum average around 27°C (81°F), and Atlanta fluctuates around 65°F (18°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Atlanta 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 Atlanta during spring. Tulum gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Atlanta receives 262 hours of full sun in the spring.

Atlanta receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Tulum usually receives less rain than Atlanta. Tulum gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Atlanta receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain each month for the spring. November to April in Tulum is the dry season. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Tulum. June to October is the hurricane season in Tulum.

Typical Weather for Atlanta and Tulum