A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tulum vs. New Orleans for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Tulum or New Orleans?

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 New Orleans 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 archeological, tropical, and active town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

New Orleans

New Orleans is a vibrant, energetic, and fun-filled city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Tulum and New Orleans: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tulum or New Orleans?

Tourists will generally find more to do in New Orleans. Although Tulum and New Orleans are both popular with visitors, New Orleans has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. New Orleans is more popular for its food, music, historical sights, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Tulum is known for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Tulum is popular for its archeological sights, beautiful beaches, and dramatic cenotes. New Orleans is popular for its jazz festivals, local cuisine, quaint balconies, and world class Mardi Gras parties. It is also home to The French Quarter.

The French Quarter

How is Tulum different from New Orleans?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Tulum is a world-class destination for its museums and history. However, New Orleans does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Tulum from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

New Orleans does not have museums and landmarks.

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

New Orleans is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Tulum is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in New Orleans have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It has rapidly grown into one of the United State's most well known foodie destinations. It's the birthplace of bananas foster and popular for it's gumbo, crawfish etouffee, jambalaya, and red beans and rice. While there are a number of celebrity chefs from New Orleans, you'll also find many local restaurants that aren't as well known but are equally worth visiting.

Tulum has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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).

Is Tulum or New Orleans Better for Nightlife?

Both Tulum and New Orleans are world-class 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.

New Orleans is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The nightlife scene is at its best during Mardi Gras. But year-round you'll find Bachelor and Bachelorette parties, spring breakers, and anyone who wants to enjoy a crazy time heads to New Orleans. New Orleans is a destination that attracts partiers any time of the year, and the French Quarter is the place to be if you're looking for a party.

Is Tulum or New Orleans Better for Music?

New Orleans is terrific for live music. However, Tulum is not a live music destination.

New Orleans is a world class music destination. The city is known for its music festivals that feature jazz, blues, and many other types of live music. The Jazz Festival is a great time to visit.

Tulum is not a live music destination.

Is Tulum or New Orleans Better for Resorts?

Tulum is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, New Orleans is not a resort destination.

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.

New Orleans is not a resort destination.

Is Tulum or New Orleans Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tulum is a world-class destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, New Orleans is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Tulum is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

New Orleans is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tulum or New Orleans Better for Beaches?

Tulum is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, New Orleans is not a beach destination.

Tulum is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

New Orleans is not a beach destination.

Is Tulum or New Orleans Better for its Old Town?

New Orleans is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Tulum does not have a historic old town.

New Orleans is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The French Quarter is filled with old architecture and beautiful historic landmarks.

Tulum does not have a historic old town.

Is Tulum or New Orleans Better for Hiking?

Tulum is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, New Orleans is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

New Orleans is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tulum or New Orleans?

Tulum is an excellent place to visit for shopping. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, New Orleans has some nice offerings. New Orleans shopping is mostly centered around shopping malls and chain stores.

Is Tulum or New Orleans Better for Families?

Tulum is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

Tulum is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

New Orleans doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. While there are some family-friendly activities in New Orleans like a zoo and several great parks, the city is more known for its parties and nightlife scene. Particularly during certain seasons, most people choose to visit New Orleans without kids.

Is Tulum or New Orleans Better for Couples?

Tulum is a world-class destination for romance. Also, New Orleans is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

New Orleans makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy a lively evening, fun festivals, and exploring absolutely amazing restaurants will enjoy a visit to New Orleans. It has a festive and unique atmosphere any time of the year. There are also nice hotels and beautiful parks.

Is Tulum or New Orleans Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tulum is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for backpackers.

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

New Orleans is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a handful of hostels in New Orleans that are good options for backpackers who want to meet other travelers.

Is Tulum or New Orleans Better for Students?

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

New Orleans is a good city to visit for students. Students head to New Orleans to enjoy spring break and Mardi Gras.

Tulum is not popular with students.

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

Tulum is a town with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its public transit.

Tulum has some 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.

Public transit is generally limited in New Orleans. The city has streetcar lines and bus lines that you can use, but you'll want to have a car if you want to venture outside of these main areas.

Is Tulum or New Orleans a more walkable city?

Tulum is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, New Orleans is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

New Orleans is a somewhat walkable place. If you stick to the French Quarter and downtown areas, most things are walkable in New Orleans.

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

Should I spend more time in New Orleans or Tulum?

How long in Tulum or New Orleans?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tulum and New Orleans. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tulum than in New Orleans. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Tulum, and 2-3 days is enough time in New Orleans.

Families should spend more time in Tulum than New Orleans. 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 New Orleans. 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 New Orleans 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 New Orleans?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the archeological town of Tulum. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In New Orleans, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this fun-filled destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 New Orleans?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the ancient destination of Tulum. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town offers something for everyone. 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 New Orleans. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 New Orleans?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the active town of Tulum. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

New Orleans is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the destination of New Orleans. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tulum or New Orleans?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Tulum. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the festive destination of New Orleans. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Tulum or New Orleans?

New Orleans has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Tulum. When comparing the sizes of Tulum and New Orleans, 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 New Orleans?

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 New Orleans in the Summer?

Both New Orleans and Tulum during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Tulum because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to New Orleans this time of year.

Tulum is around the same temperature as New Orleans in the summer. The daily temperature in Tulum averages around 28°C (83°F) in July, and New Orleans fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

In New Orleans, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tulum. In the summer, Tulum often gets less sunshine than New Orleans. Tulum gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while New Orleans receives 264 hours of full sun.

New Orleans gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Tulum. Tulum usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as New Orleans. Tulum gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while New Orleans receives 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tulum or New Orleans in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Tulum and New Orleans. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Tulum this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to New Orleans for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In the autumn, Tulum is a little warmer than New Orleans. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tulum in October average around 27°C (81°F), and New Orleans averages at about 69°F (21°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in New Orleans this time of the year. In Tulum, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tulum usually receives less sunshine than New Orleans during autumn. Tulum gets 216 hours of sunny skies, while New Orleans receives 240 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Tulum gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Tulum usually receives more rain than New Orleans. Tulum gets 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain, while New Orleans receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. November to April in Tulum is the dry season. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Tulum. June to October in Tulum is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Tulum or New Orleans in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Tulum as well as New Orleans. Many travelers come to Tulum for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to New Orleans in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In January, Tulum is generally much warmer than New Orleans. Daily temperatures in Tulum average around 23°C (74°F), and New Orleans fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tulum this time of the year. In the winter, Tulum often gets more sunshine than New Orleans. Tulum gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while New Orleans receives 158 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in New Orleans. Tulum usually gets less rain in January than New Orleans. Tulum gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while New Orleans receives 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tulum or New Orleans in the Spring?

Both New Orleans and Tulum are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Tulum in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to New Orleans for the activities around the city during these months.

Tulum is a little warmer than New Orleans in the spring. The daily temperature in Tulum averages around 27°C (81°F) in April, and New Orleans fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in New Orleans. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tulum. Tulum usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as New Orleans during spring. Tulum gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while New Orleans receives 254 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in New Orleans. In April, Tulum usually receives less rain than New Orleans. Tulum gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while New Orleans receives 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain each month for the spring. 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.

Typical Weather for New Orleans and Tulum