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

Should you visit Tulum or Greensboro?

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 Greensboro 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 tropical, active, and lively town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Greensboro

Greensboro is a under-rated, friendly, and welcoming city. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Tulum and Greensboro: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Tulum or Greensboro?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Tulum. Although Tulum and Greensboro are popular destinations, Tulum has more sights and attractions for tourists. Tulum is more touristy than Greensboro and is known for its archeological sights, beautiful beaches, and dramatic cenotes. It is also well known for the Tulum archeological ruins. Greensboro is famous for its interesting museums and diverse restaurants.

How is Tulum different from Greensboro?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Tulum
Greensboro

Tulum is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Greensboro is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Tulum are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Greensboro. The Greensboro Science Center is a highlight for families. Other interesting museums around town include the Elsewhere Modern Art Museum, the Greensboro History Museum, the International Civil Rights Center, and the Weatherspoon Art Museum.


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

Tulum
Greensboro

Tulum is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Tulum. 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).

Greensboro may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. You'll find a good selection of restaurants around town with Mexican, southern, Italian, and Chinese all being popular options.

Is Tulum or Greensboro Better for Nightlife?

Tulum
Greensboro

Tulum is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Greensboro is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Tulum is a world class 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Greensboro has a few options to choose from. Head downtown for the most trendy bars, breweries, and nightclubs.

Is Tulum or Greensboro Better for Resorts?

Tulum
Greensboro

Tulum is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Greensboro is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Tulum for its luxury resorts. 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.

Greensboro is not a resort destination.


Is Tulum or Greensboro Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tulum
Greensboro

Tulum is a must-visit destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Greensboro is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Tulum. 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.

Greensboro is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tulum or Greensboro Better for Beaches?

Tulum
Greensboro

Tulum is a must-visit destination for the beache. However, Greensboro is not a beach destination.

Tulum offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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.

Greensboro is not a beach destination.

Is Tulum or Greensboro Better for Hiking?

Tulum
Greensboro

Tulum is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Greensboro 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.

Greensboro is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Tulum or Greensboro?

Tulum
Greensboro

Tulum is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Greensboro is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Tulum is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Greensboro has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are shopping centers and shopping malls around town as well as some interesting local boutiques.

Is Tulum or Greensboro Better for Families?

Tulum
Greensboro

Tulum is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Greensboro is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Tulum is a very kid-friendly town. 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.

Greensboro offers lots of family activities. Kids will love visiting the Greensboro Science Center, which has hands-on science exhibits and a small zoo. Younger kids will also enjoy a visit to the Miriam P. Brenner Children’s Museum. During the summer months the Wet 'n Wild Emerald Pointe Water Park is a great way to spend a day. Other times of the year, there are indoor play spaces and movie theaters around town.

Is Tulum or Greensboro Better for Couples?

Tulum
Greensboro

Tulum is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for couples.

Tulum is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Greensboro is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The Carolina Theater makes a great date night activity. There is also a diverse selection of restaurants around town and a few parks for a daytime outing.


Is Tulum or Greensboro Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tulum
Greensboro

Tulum is well known for backpackers. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Greensboro is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a number of budget hotels nearby but no real hostels.

Is Tulum or Greensboro Better for Students?

Tulum
Greensboro

Greensboro is a city with good options for students. However, Tulum is not popular with students.

Greensboro is a good city to visit for students. University of North Carolina at Greensboro attracts students to the city. There are also several smaller colleges in the area.

Tulum is not popular with students.

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

Tulum
Greensboro

Tulum is a good destination for its public transit. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Tulum, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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 mostly limited in Greensboro. There are several bus routes around town, but you really can depend on them to get where you're going. A car is important for making the most of your trip.


Is Tulum or Greensboro a more walkable city?

Tulum
Greensboro

Tulum is well known for its high level of walkability. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

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

Greensboro is generally not a very walkable town. Most areas aren't walkable, but for the most pedestrian-friendly sections head to College Hill, downtown, or Brice Street.

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

Should I spend more time in Greensboro or Tulum?

How long in Tulum or Greensboro?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Tulum or Greensboro to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Tulum than Greensboro because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Tulum, and 1-2 days is enough time in Greensboro.

Families should spend more time in Tulum than Greensboro. 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 Greensboro. 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 Greensboro 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.


  • How many days in Tulum or Greensboro? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tulum 3-5 
    Greensboro 1-2

One day in Tulum or Greensboro?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the active town of Tulum, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Greensboro, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this under-rated destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Tulum or Greensboro?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Tulum, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. 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 Greensboro. 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 Greensboro?

Tulum, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

A week in Tulum or Greensboro?

Tulum is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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.

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the under-rated destination of Greensboro. 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 Photography Tours in United States of America, and The Best Camping Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Greensboro or Tulum?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Tulum is $122, while the average daily cost in Greensboro is $162. 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 Tulum and Greensboro in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tulum $60
    Greensboro $96
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tulum $120
    Greensboro $192
Compare Hotels in Tulum and Greensboro

Looking for a hotel in Tulum or Greensboro? 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 Tulum


Hotels in Greensboro


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: Tulum Hotel Prices and Greensboro Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tulum $28
    Greensboro $24
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Tulum

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Tulum are as follows:


  • Scooter Rental
    $18

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tulum

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Tulum:

  • Cancun Airport Departure transfer from Akumal, Tulum: $191
  • Chetumal City to Chetumal Airport CTM Departure Private Transfer: $24
  • Departure Private Transfer from Tulum to Cancun Airport CUN by Minivan - Minibus: $117
  • EV Private Transfer from Tulum to Cancun Airport: $135
  • One Way Private Tulum Transfers to or from Cancun Airport: $160
  • One-Way Private or Luxury Airport Transfer Tulum Cancun Airport: $195
  • Private Luxury Transfer Tulum to Cancun Airport: $220
  • Private Transfer From Cancun Airport - Tulum: $208
  • Private Transfer From Tulum to Chetumal With a 2 Hour Stop: $218
  • Private Transfer Tulum Zone - Cancun International Airport: $160
  • Private Transfer Tulum-Bacalar with optional 2h in Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve: $211
  • Private Transfer in Vehicle from Tulum to Cancun Airport : $91

Is it cheaper to fly into Tulum or Greensboro?

Prices for flights to both Greensboro and Tulum 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
    Tulum $34
    Greensboro $48
Typical Food Prices in Tulum

Some typical examples of dining costs in Tulum are as follows:


  • Lunch
    $3.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tulum

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Tulum.

  • Tulum Local Walking Food Tour: $86
  • Vegan Walking Food Tour with Tasting: $87
  • Mexican Cooking from Scratch and Mezcal Tasting in a Local Home in Tulum: $87
  • Tulum Vegan Food Tour: $89
  • Authentic Mexican Food Tour in Tulum: $146
  • Gourmet Experience: 5 Course Dinner, Cocktail Class and Wine Pairing: $159
  • Mayan Night Guided Tour, Cenote Swim and Mayan Dinner: $209
  • Private transfer for 5 hours (go dinner,cenotes, shopping and more) : $299

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tulum $32
    Greensboro $26

Tours and Activities in Tulum

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Tulum are as follows:

  • Audioguide Tulum, Audioguide-App Mayastadt Tulum, Tour Tulum Archaeological Site: $4.31
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour - Coba Ruins: The trail of the Mayas: $10
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour - The Return Home: $10
  • Skip-the-Line Entrance Ticket: $12
  • Tulum Archeological Site Skip-the-Line Ticket: $12
  • Self-Guided Mayan Ruins Tour: $13
  • Explore Coba: The Ultimate Self-Guided Audio & Map Tour: $15
  • Archeological Guided Walking Tour in Tulum: $20
  • Archaeological Site Guided Walking Tour: $20
  • Tulum Mural Tours: $36
  • Playa del Carmen: ATV, Cenote, and Zipline Tour with a Meal: $41
  • Entrance tickets to swim in 4 Cenotes in Casa Tortuga Park: $42

Tours and Activities in Greensboro

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

  • True Crime Tour: $16
  • Downtown Historic Walking Tour: $16
  • African American History Walking Tour: $16

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tulum $25
    Greensboro $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Tulum

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Tulum:

  • 30 Minutes Brewery Tour in Tulum: $39
  • Wine Tasting at Pan y Vino Tulum: $58
  • Beer Tasting and Brewery Tour: $69
  • Beer Tasting and Brewery Tour and Pairing by an Expert Brewer: $84


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


Which is Bigger, Tulum or Greensboro?

Greensboro has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Tulum. When comparing the sizes of Tulum and Greensboro, 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 Greensboro?

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 Greensboro in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tulum and Greensboro. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Tulum this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Greensboro for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Tulum is around the same temperature as Greensboro. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tulum in July average around 28°C (83°F), and Greensboro averages at about 81°F (27°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Greensboro this time of the year. In Tulum, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tulum usually receives less sunshine than Greensboro during summer. Tulum gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Greensboro receives 273 hours of full sun in the summer.

Greensboro receives a lot of rain in the summer. Tulum gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Tulum usually receives more rain than Greensboro. Tulum gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Greensboro receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tulum 28°C (83°F) 
    Greensboro 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Tulum or Greensboro in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Tulum as well as Greensboro. Many travelers come to Tulum for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Greensboro in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In October, Tulum is generally much warmer than Greensboro. Daily temperatures in Tulum average around 27°C (81°F), and Greensboro fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Greensboro. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tulum this time of the year. In the autumn, Tulum often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Greensboro. Tulum gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Greensboro receives 212 hours of full sun.

Tulum receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Tulum usually gets more rain in October than Greensboro. Tulum gets 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain, while Greensboro receives 3 inches (75 mm) 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. Also, June to October in Tulum is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tulum 27°C (81°F) 
    Greensboro 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Tulum or Greensboro in the Winter?

Both Greensboro and Tulum are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Tulum in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Greensboro for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Greensboro can be very cold during winter. Tulum is much warmer than Greensboro in the winter. The daily temperature in Tulum averages around 23°C (74°F) in January, and Greensboro fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tulum. Tulum usually receives more sunshine than Greensboro during winter. Tulum gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Greensboro receives 169 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tulum usually receives less rain than Greensboro. Tulum gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Greensboro receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tulum 23°C (74°F) 
    Greensboro 40°F (4°C)

Should I visit Tulum or Greensboro in the Spring?

Both Greensboro and Tulum during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Tulum for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Tulum is much warmer than Greensboro. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tulum in April average around 27°C (81°F), and Greensboro averages at about 61°F (16°C).

In Greensboro, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tulum. In the spring, Tulum often gets more sunshine than Greensboro. Tulum gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Greensboro receives 248 hours of full sun.

Tulum usually gets less rain in April than Greensboro. Tulum gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Greensboro receives 3.1 inches (80 mm) 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, the hurricane season in Tulum is June to October.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tulum 27°C (81°F) 
    Greensboro 61°F (16°C)

Typical Weather for Greensboro and Tulum

Tulum Greensboro
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 23°C (74°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 40°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Feb 24°C (75°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 43°F (6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Mar 25°C (78°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 52°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Apr 27°C (81°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 61°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
May 28°C (83°F) 101 mm (4 in) 69°F (21°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Jun 29°C (83°F) 192 mm (7.6 in) 77°F (25°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Jul 28°C (83°F) 145 mm (5.7 in) 81°F (27°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
Aug 28°C (83°F) 167 mm (6.6 in) 80°F (26°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm)
Sep 28°C (82°F) 228 mm (9 in) 73°F (23°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Oct 27°C (81°F) 173 mm (6.8 in) 62°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Nov 25°C (77°F) 103 mm (4.1 in) 53°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Dec 24°C (74°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)