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

Should you visit Tulum or Lewisburg?

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 Lewisburg 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a quaint, charming, and historical town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's also known for shopping and museums.

Tulum and Lewisburg: 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
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Scenic old town
  • 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


Is there more to do in Tulum or Lewisburg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Tulum. Although Tulum and Lewisburg are both popular with visitors, Tulum has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Tulum is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Lewisburg is known for its historical sights and small town charm. Tulum is more touristy than Lewisburg and is known for its archeological sights, beautiful beaches, and dramatic cenotes. It is also home to the Tulum archeological ruins. Lewisburg is popular for its historical charm and friendly personality.

How is Tulum different from Lewisburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Tulum
Lewisburg

Tulum is an amazing town to visit for its museums and landmarks. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Lewisburg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several cultural and historical museums in town as well as a fun children's museum.


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

Tulum
Lewisburg

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

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).

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Lewisburg. There are bistros and cafes as well as all the standard chain restaurants.

Is Tulum or Lewisburg Better for Nightlife?

Tulum
Lewisburg

Tulum is an amazing town to visit for nightlife. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Tulum has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Lewisburg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. While there are some bars, most people don't come here for the nightlife.

Is Tulum or Lewisburg Better for Resorts?

Tulum
Lewisburg

Tulum is an amazing town to visit for its resorts. However, Lewisburg is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Tulum is a great choice. 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.

Lewisburg is not a resort destination.


Is Tulum or Lewisburg Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tulum
Lewisburg

Tulum is an amazing town to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Lewisburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Lewisburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tulum or Lewisburg Better for Beaches?

Tulum
Lewisburg

Tulum is an amazing town to visit for its beaches. However, Lewisburg is not a beach destination.

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.

Lewisburg is not a beach destination.

Is Tulum or Lewisburg Better for its Old Town?

Tulum
Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a town with good options for its historic old town. However, Tulum does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Lewisburg to see the historical old town. There are a huge number of historical buildings in the downtown area that contribute to the town's charm and character.

Tulum does not have a historic old town.


Is Tulum or Lewisburg Better for Hiking?

Tulum
Lewisburg

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

Lewisburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tulum or Lewisburg?

Tulum
Lewisburg

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

Tulum is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lewisburg. There are some quaint local shops that sell local items and unique art works.

Is Tulum or Lewisburg Better for Families?

Tulum
Lewisburg

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

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.

Lewisburg offers lots of family activities. The Lewisburg Children's Museum is worth checking out, as is Reptiland and the many different indoor and outdoor play areas.


Is Tulum or Lewisburg Better for Couples?

Tulum
Lewisburg

Tulum is an amazing town to visit for romance. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its romantic activities.

Tulum makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Most people don't think of Lewisburg as a couple's destination. There are several quaint inns and beautiful gardens that you can explore. There are also spas and restaurants where you can enjoy a nice meal.

Is Tulum or Lewisburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tulum
Lewisburg

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

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Lewisburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the radar for most backpackers.

Is Tulum or Lewisburg Better for Students?

Tulum
Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a town with good options for students. However, Tulum is not popular with students.

Lewisburg is a good town to visit for students. Many students enjoy living here while they attend Bucknell University.

Tulum is not popular with students.


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

Tulum
Lewisburg

Tulum is a popular place for its public transit. However, Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg. Public transportation in the area is limited.

Is Tulum or Lewisburg a more walkable city?

Tulum
Lewisburg

Tulum is well known for its walkability. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Lewisburg is a somewhat walkable place. It's small with a relatively compact downtown.

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

Should I spend more time in Lewisburg or Tulum?

How long in Tulum or Lewisburg?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Tulum or Lewisburg to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Tulum than Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg.

Families should spend more time in Tulum than Lewisburg. 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 Lewisburg. 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 Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tulum 3-5 
    Lewisburg 1-2

One day in Tulum or Lewisburg?

You'll find nightlife and food around the town of Tulum. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Lewisburg, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historical destination offers. This town 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 Lewisburg?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the archeological destination of Tulum. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lewisburg. 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 Lewisburg?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the active town of Tulum. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

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

A week in Tulum or Lewisburg?

Tulum is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find museums and shopping around the historical destination of Lewisburg. 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 Contiki Tours to United States of America, and The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg is $136. 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 Lewisburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tulum $60
    Lewisburg $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tulum $120
    Lewisburg $140
Compare Hotels in Tulum and Lewisburg

Looking for a hotel in Tulum or Lewisburg? 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 Lewisburg


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tulum $28
    Lewisburg $53
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 Lewisburg?

Prices for flights to both Lewisburg 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
    Lewisburg $34
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
    Lewisburg $18

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tulum $25
    Lewisburg $12

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 comparing the travel costs between Tulum and Lewisburg, we can see that Lewisburg is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Tulum or Lewisburg?

Tulum has a larger population, and is about 55% larger than the population of Lewisburg. When comparing the sizes of Tulum and Lewisburg, 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 Lewisburg?

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 Lewisburg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tulum and Lewisburg. Many travelers come to Tulum for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Lewisburg in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Tulum is a little warmer than Lewisburg in the summer. The daily temperature in Tulum averages around 28°C (83°F) in July, and Lewisburg fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lewisburg this time of the year. In Tulum, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tulum usually receives less sunshine than Lewisburg during summer. Tulum gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Lewisburg receives 310 hours of full sun in the summer.

Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg. Tulum gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 4 inches (101 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tulum 28°C (83°F) 
    Lewisburg 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Tulum or Lewisburg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Tulum as well as Lewisburg. Many visitors come to Tulum in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Lewisburg for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months.

In the autumn, Tulum is much warmer than Lewisburg. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tulum in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Lewisburg averages at about 54°F (12°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tulum this time of the year. In the autumn, Tulum often gets more sunshine than Lewisburg. Tulum gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lewisburg receives 194 hours of full sun.

Tulum receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Tulum usually gets more rain in October than Lewisburg. Tulum gets 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 3.3 inches (84 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, the hurricane season in Tulum is June to October.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tulum 27°C (81°F) 
    Lewisburg 54°F (12°C)

Should I visit Tulum or Lewisburg in the Winter?

Both Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Lewisburg can be very cold. In January, Tulum is generally much warmer than Lewisburg. Daily temperatures in Tulum average around 23°C (74°F), and Lewisburg fluctuates around 27°F (-3°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tulum. Tulum usually receives more sunshine than Lewisburg during winter. Tulum gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Lewisburg receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tulum usually receives less rain than Lewisburg. Tulum gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 2.5 inches (65 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tulum 23°C (74°F) 
    Lewisburg 27°F (-3°C)

Should I visit Tulum or Lewisburg in the Spring?

Both Lewisburg 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. Furthermore, the small town charm are the main draw to Lewisburg this time of year.

Tulum is much warmer than Lewisburg in the spring. The daily temperature in Tulum averages around 27°C (81°F) in April, and Lewisburg fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In Lewisburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tulum. In the spring, Tulum often gets more sunshine than Lewisburg. Tulum gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lewisburg receives 237 hours of full sun.

Tulum usually gets less rain in April than Lewisburg. Tulum gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 3.2 inches (82 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. Keep in mind that June to October is the hurricane season in Tulum.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tulum 27°C (81°F) 
    Lewisburg 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Lewisburg and Tulum

Tulum Lewisburg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 23°C (74°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 27°F (-3°C) 2.5 inches (65 mm)
Feb 24°C (75°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Mar 25°C (78°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 40°F (5°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Apr 27°C (81°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 51°F (11°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 28°C (83°F) 101 mm (4 in) 62°F (16°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jun 29°C (83°F) 192 mm (7.6 in) 70°F (21°C) 4.3 inches (110 mm)
Jul 28°C (83°F) 145 mm (5.7 in) 74°F (24°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Aug 28°C (83°F) 167 mm (6.6 in) 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Sep 28°C (82°F) 228 mm (9 in) 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Oct 27°C (81°F) 173 mm (6.8 in) 54°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Nov 25°C (77°F) 103 mm (4.1 in) 44°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Dec 24°C (74°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 33°F (1°C) 3 inches (77 mm)