A Travel Price Comparison for Mexico Tulum vs. Playa del Carmen for Attractions, Nightlife, Resorts, and Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

Should you visit Tulum or Playa del Carmen?

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 Playa del Carmen can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Tulum

Tulum is a active, lively, and ancient town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is a scenic, stunning, and vibrant town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Tulum and Playa del Carmen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tulum or Playa del Carmen?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Tulum than Playa del Carmen, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Tulum is well known for its archeological sights, beautiful beaches, and dramatic cenotes. Also, Tulum is famous for the Tulum archeological ruins. Playa del Carmen is well known for its coral reefs, luxury resorts, and white sand beaches.

How is Tulum different from Playa del Carmen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Playa del Carmen 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 Playa del Carmen?

Tulum is an amazing town to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Playa del Carmen is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

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

While most people don't head to Playa del Carmen specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. If you're willing to head out of town, there are world class Mayan ruins not far away, but if you want to hang out near town, then you'll likely spend most of your time enjoying outdoor water activities.

Is the Food Better in Tulum or Playa del Carmen? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tulum is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Playa del Carmen. You'll find a good number of overpriced tourist restaurants in the area, but if you do some research you'll also find amazing and authentic Mexican food as well. There is everything from food trucks to fine dining that offer ceviche, tacos, or burritos. There are also plenty of places to grab pizza or burgers.

Is Tulum or Playa del Carmen Better for Nightlife?

Both Tulum and Playa del Carmen are terrific when it comes to partying.

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

Playa del Carmen is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. It rivals some of the country's best nightlife and you'll find plenty of venues to choose from, ranging from dive bars to swanky cocktail lounges. Head to the main walking street for some of the most active venues.

Is Tulum or Playa del Carmen Better for Resorts?

If luxury resorts are your style, both Tulum and Playa del Carmen have terrific options.

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

Vacationers flock to Playa del Carmen for its luxury resorts. You'll find a huge number of luxury resorts in the area, particularly along the beach. There are fancy pools and beachfront properties that offer the perfect vacation retreat.

Is Tulum or Playa del Carmen Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Both Tulum and Playa del Carmen offer terrific scuba diving or snorkeling.

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.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Playa del Carmen. There's not a lot to see right off of the beach, but there are plenty of snorkeling excursions in the area that take you to beautiful reefs. The diving is world class as well and you'll find wonderful reefs, bull sharks, and hidden gems.

Is Tulum or Playa del Carmen Better for Beaches?

Both Tulum and Playa del Carmen are considered to be terrific beach destinations.

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.

Playa del Carmen offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The area is filled with world class beaches, long stretches of white sand, and beautiful blue water. You might even stumble across a sea turtle or two while you're swimming.

Is Tulum or Playa del Carmen Better for Hiking?

Tulum is a great destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Playa del Carmen. There are well marked trails in the area that get you out in nature or take you along the coastline.

Is the Shopping Better in Tulum or Playa del Carmen?

Tulum is a great destination for its shopping areas. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Playa del Carmen. Much of the shopping is geared towards the tourists, but you'll find some local items, interesting galleries, and colorful markets to explore.

Is Tulum or Playa del Carmen Better for Families?

Playa del Carmen is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Tulum is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Playa del Carmen is an extremely popular town to visit for families. From eco parks to kid-friendly snorkeling opportunities, there are many activities for kids of all ages. There are also adventure parks and playgrounds that are perfect for a fun afternoon.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Tulum is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Tulum or Playa del Carmen Better for Couples?

Both Tulum and Playa del Carmen are terrific destinations for a couple's getaway.

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

Playa del Carmen is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Beautiful beaches and tropical jungles make this a paradise honeymoon destination. You'll find luxury resorts, fine dining restaurants, and countless opportunities to enjoy the stunning setting. Take a sunset cruise of explore one of the many natural wonders in the area.

Is Tulum or Playa del Carmen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tulum is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Playa del Carmen is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's filled with tourists staying at luxury resorts, but you'll also find a couple of hostels tucked away in town. If you're interesting in scuba diving, then it's well worth the trip.

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

Both Tulum and Playa del Carmen offer notable public transit options.

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

Playa del Carmen has some public transit options. There are local buses, collectivos and the ADO bus.

Is Tulum or Playa del Carmen a more walkable city?

Playa del Carmen is terrific for its walkability. Also, Tulum is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Playa del Carmen on foot. It's a compact and very walkable town. La Quinta is the main strip and it's pedestrian-only.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Tulum Worth Visiting? and Is Playa del Carmen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Playa del Carmen or Tulum?

How long in Tulum or Playa del Carmen?

Both Tulum and Playa del Carmen have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Playa del Carmen than in Tulum. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Tulum, and 3-7 days is enough time in Playa del Carmen.

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

Couples should spend more time in Tulum than Playa del Carmen. 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 Playa del Carmen 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 Playa del Carmen?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the active destination of Tulum. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Playa del Carmen, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this vibrant destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This town 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 Playa del Carmen?

You'll find shopping and museums around the lively town of Tulum. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

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

Five days in Tulum or Playa del Carmen?

Tulum is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

A week in Tulum or Playa del Carmen?

Tulum is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

In Playa del Carmen, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this picture-perfect destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

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

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tulum and Playa del Carmen, we can see that Tulum is more expensive. And not only is Playa del Carmen much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Playa del Carmen would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Playa del Carmen and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Tulum would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Tulum than you might in Playa del Carmen.

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

Which is Bigger, Tulum or Playa del Carmen?

Playa del Carmen has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Tulum. When comparing the sizes of Tulum and Playa del Carmen, 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 Playa del Carmen?

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 Playa del Carmen in the Summer?

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

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Playa del Carmen 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 Playa del Carmen during summer. Tulum gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Playa del Carmen receives 223 hours of full sun in the summer.

Playa del Carmen receives a lot of rain in the summer. Tulum gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Tulum usually receives around the same amount of rain as Playa del Carmen. Tulum gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tulum or Playa del Carmen in the Autumn?

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

Tulum is around the same temperature as Playa del Carmen in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tulum averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Playa del Carmen fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Playa del Carmen. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tulum this time of the year. In the autumn, Tulum often gets less sunshine than Playa del Carmen. Tulum gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Playa del Carmen receives 233 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Playa del Carmen. Tulum receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Tulum usually gets more rain in October than Playa del Carmen. Tulum gets 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Tulum is the dry season. June to October in Tulum is the rainy season. Keep in mind that June to October is the hurricane season in Tulum. Keep in mind that June to October is the hurricane season in Playa del Carmen.

Should I visit Tulum or Playa del Carmen in the Winter?

Both Playa del Carmen 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 Playa del Carmen because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Tulum is around the same temperature as Playa del Carmen. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tulum in January average around 23°C (74°F), and Playa del Carmen averages at about 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Playa del Carmen. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tulum. Tulum usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Playa del Carmen during winter. Tulum gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Playa del Carmen receives 224 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tulum usually receives more rain than Playa del Carmen. Tulum gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tulum or Playa del Carmen in the Spring?

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

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

In Playa del Carmen, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tulum. In the spring, Tulum often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Playa del Carmen. Tulum gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Playa del Carmen receives 259 hours of full sun.

Tulum usually gets more rain in April than Playa del Carmen. Tulum gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Tulum. June to October is the rainy season in Tulum. Also, June to October in Tulum is the hurricane season. Also, June to October in Playa del Carmen is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Playa del Carmen and Tulum