A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cancun vs. Breckenridge for Nightlife, Resorts, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cancun or Breckenridge?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Cancun and Breckenridge can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cancun

Cancun is a party-hard, tropical, and active city. The beauty of Cancun is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Cancun travel costs.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a nature-filled, charming, and breathtaking ski resort. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. The beauty of Breckenridge is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and skiing. See Breckenridge travel costs.

Cancun and Breckenridge: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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
  • Popular for skiing
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as many resort options


Is there more to do in Cancun or Breckenridge?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cancun than Breckenridge, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cancun is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Breckenridge is more popular for its skiing, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Cancun is more touristy than Breckenridge and is popular for its water sports, white sand beaches, popularity at spring break, and access to Mayan ruins. Also, Cancun is famous for . Breckenridge is well known for its world-class ski resorts, its charming small town atmosphere, and its family-friendly environment.



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How is Cancun different from Breckenridge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Breckenridge and Cancun. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Cancun or Breckenridge Better for Skiing?

Cancun
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is renowned for skiing and snowboarding. However, Cancun is not a skiing destination.

Breckenridge is among the world's best ski destinations. This is one of the most recognizable ski destinations in the world. It has diverse terrain that is good for all levels including beginners, intermediate, and expert skiers. The resort also has the tallest chairlift in North America.

Cancun is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cancun or Breckenridge?

Cancun
Breckenridge

Cancun is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

Cancun offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. It's possible to do a day trip to visit the impressive Chichén Itzá, but closer by you'll find El Rey Maya Ruins and El Meco Archaeological Site. You can also visit the Maya Museum in town. For something truly unique, you can take a diving or snorkeling trip to the Cancun Underwater Museum.

Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Cancun or Breckenridge? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cancun
Breckenridge

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at notable restaurants in both Cancun and Breckenridge.

Cancun has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. If you step away from the tourist scene, you'll find some amazing local restaurants that serve authentic and fresh Mexican cuisine. Favorite dishes in the area include tamales, sopa de lima, and tacos al pastor.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Breckenridge area. There are a number of restaurants around town serving everything from casual to fine dining. There are bistros, pubs, and luxury options where you can enjoy international or local dishes including elk and buffalo.

Is Cancun or Breckenridge Better for Nightlife?

Cancun
Breckenridge

Cancun is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its evening party scene.

People head to Cancun just to party. It's long been known as a party destination and there are large world famous clubs as well as smaller bars where you can hang out. The party never stops here, so be prepared for all night dancing and drinking, and it will definitely live up to its reputation.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Breckenridge. The town comes to life in the winter and there are plenty of bars, breweries, and a wide selection of craft beer that you can try. Live music also brings the town to life in the evening.


Is Cancun or Breckenridge Better for Resorts?

Cancun
Breckenridge

Cancun is a world-class destination for its resorts. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Cancun is a great choice. You'll find most of the accommodation options in the Hotel Zone, which runs along Boulevard Kukulkan. The stretch can be divided into three areas, which each have a slightly different personality.

Breckenridge has a few great resort options. The resorts often have pools or hot tubs where you can unwind after a day on the slopes. Many have condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms.

Is Cancun or Breckenridge Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cancun
Breckenridge

Cancun is a world-class destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Breckenridge is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Cancun a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. Beautiful reefs and world class dives make this a popular destination for those who want to explore the undersea world. You'll find plenty of snorkeling and dive excursions in the area with diverse coral and marine life.

Breckenridge is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cancun or Breckenridge Better for Beaches?

Cancun
Breckenridge

Cancun is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Breckenridge is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Cancun. There are stunning white sand beaches and turquoise blue water that make this a beautiful beach destination. There are miles of sandy coastline with many of the beaches found in the Hotel Zone.

Breckenridge is not a beach destination.


Is Cancun or Breckenridge Better for its Old Town?

Cancun
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is very good for its old town. However, Cancun does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Breckenridge. Originating as a mining town, there is a historic Main Street that is filled with character.

Cancun does not have a historic old town.

Is Cancun or Breckenridge Better for Hiking?

Cancun
Breckenridge

You'll find notable hiking in both Cancun and Breckenridge.

Many people include a hike when visiting Cancun. There are some beautiful walking paths and hiking trails that are within the area.

Breckenridge has hiking trails worth exploring. During the summer months there are plenty of beautiful hikes nearby, but you'll likely need a car to reach most trailheads. Popular trails include Hoosier Pass Loop, Blue Lakes Trail, and McCullough Gulch.

Is the Shopping Better in Cancun or Breckenridge?

Cancun
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Cancun is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Breckenridge is well-known for its shopping. Quaint shops and galleries are throughout the town where you can by gear, artwork, or souvenirs.

Many visitors go to Cancun to go shopping. While most people visit for the beaches and nightlife, there are shopping malls and markets where you can enjoy some retail therapy.


Is Cancun or Breckenridge More Beautiful?

Cancun
Breckenridge

Cancun and Breckenridge are somewhat similar when it comes to the great scenery.

The beauty of Cancun is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. White sand beaches and clear blue waters make this a beautiful vacation destination. Nearby jungle offers adventure, and the undersea world is magical.

With stunning beauty, Breckenridge attracts visitors from all around. The beautiful mountains make a great backdrop for one of the area's best ski resorts.

Is Cancun or Breckenridge Better for Families?

Cancun
Breckenridge

Cancun is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Cancun is a very family-friendly destination. Although this part of Mexico has long had a reputation for its party scene, the area also attracts many families, who come for the family-friendly resorts, world class snorkeling, and fascinating jungle tours. You can snorkel at the Garrafon Natural Reef Park or have fun on the water slides at Ventura Park. Xel-Ha Park is also worth a visit.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Breckenridge. It is a fun, family-friendly ski resort town with skiing for all levels. There are lessons for kids starting at the age of three, and slopes that are perfect for all skill levels. The town also has ice skating, sledding, and white water rafting.

Is Cancun or Breckenridge Better for Couples?

Cancun
Breckenridge

Cancun is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for couples.

Cancun makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. As a world class honeymoon destination, you'll find stunning white sand beaches, amazing snorkeling and diving, and a huge range of entertainment options. You can enjoy the nightlife scene or check out Cirque du Soleil. Sunset boat cruises and romantic horseback rides all make this an amazing honeymoon destination.

Breckenridge makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For couples who enjoy skiing, outdoor activities, beautiful hikes, and a charming small town atmosphere, this is the perfect romantic getaway.


Is Cancun or Breckenridge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cancun
Breckenridge

Cancun is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Cancun is a great city to visit for backpackers. Mixed in between the luxury resorts are a few hostels that cater to the backpacker crowd. There are so many activities in the area, from diving to partying, that appeal to the backpacker crowd, that it won't be long before you find your people.

Breckenridge is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The town has a hostel or two for skiers who want a social setting at an affordable price.

Is Cancun or Breckenridge Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cancun
Breckenridge

Cancun is a popular place for its public transit. However, Breckenridge is not a good ski resort for times when you don't have a car.

Cancun has a few public transit options. The buses are an efficient way to get around. They stop along Boulevard Kukulcán and throughout the downtown.

Public transit is mostly limited in Breckenridge. There is a free shuttle service around town.

Is Cancun or Breckenridge a more walkable city?

Cancun
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Cancun is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Breckenridge. The town is designed to be pedestrian-friendly.

Cancun is a very walkable destination. The Hotel Zone is where most tourists spend their time, and this area is very walkable.


For even more information, also check out Is Cancun Worth Visiting? and Is Breckenridge Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Breckenridge or Cancun?

How long in Cancun or Breckenridge?

Both Cancun and Breckenridge have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Cancun has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Cancun than Breckenridge. In general, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Cancun, and 3-7 days is enough time in Breckenridge.

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

Couples should spend more time in Cancun than Breckenridge. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Cancun that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cancun than Breckenridge 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 Cancun.


  • How many days in Cancun or Breckenridge? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cancun 4-7 
    Breckenridge 3-7

One day in Cancun or Breckenridge?

In Cancun, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this adventurous city offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Breckenridge might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Cancun or Breckenridge?

Cancun is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Breckenridge is a great place to explore. Don't miss the skiing, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Cancun or Breckenridge?

In Cancun, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this active destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Breckenridge. Don't miss the skiing, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in Cancun or Breckenridge?

Cancun is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Breckenridge is a small town with plenty to do. This ski resort offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Playa del Carmen, The Best 2-Week Tours from Cancun, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Breckenridge or Cancun?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Cancun Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Breckenridge Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cancun $153
    Breckenridge $301

The average daily cost (per person) in Cancun is $153, while the average daily cost in Breckenridge is $301. 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 Cancun and Breckenridge in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cancun $89
    Breckenridge $143
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cancun $178
    Breckenridge $286
Compare Hotels in Cancun and Breckenridge

Looking for a hotel in Cancun or Breckenridge? 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 Cancun


Hotels in Breckenridge


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: Cancun Hotel Prices and Breckenridge Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cancun $16
    Breckenridge $38
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Cancun

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Cancun:


  • Taxi Around Town
    $1.52
  • Airport Shuttle (for 2)
    $13
  • Ferry to Isla de Mujeres (for 2)
    $15
  • Local Bus (for 2)
    $1.85

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cancun

Also for Cancun, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Shared Transfer from Cancun Airport : $6.00
  • Cancun Airport Small-Group Transfer to Cancun Hotels: $6.00
  • Cancun Airport private transfer to Cancun hotel zone: $15
  • CUN Airport to Cancun City Centre Hotels Shared Transfer: $17
  • Cancun airport private Transfer: $17
  • Shared Round-Trip Transfer To/From Cancun International Airport: $20
  • Best SpeedBoat and Snorkeling tour with Transfer from Cancun: $25
  • Departure Private Transfer Cancun to Cancun Airport CUN by Minivan or Minibus: $29
  • Cancun Airport Hotel Private Transfer by Minivan: $32
  • Marriot Cancun Private Airport Transfers: $32
  • Private Transfer to/from Hotels in Cancun Area: $34
  • One-Way Private Airport Transfer Cancun & Riviera Maya : $34

Is it cheaper to fly into Cancun or Breckenridge?

Prices for flights to both Breckenridge and Cancun 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
    Cancun $45
    Breckenridge $119
Typical Food Prices in Cancun

For Cancun, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch for Two
    $19

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cancun

For Cancun, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Cancun Pirate Ship Adventure : Dinner & Show at Sea 2 for 1 Deal: $50
  • Pirate Show in Cancun! Dinner & drinks: $62
  • Cancun Street Food Tour with Food Stalls, Local Market and Murals: $64
  • Pirate Shop & Dinner at Cancun! Drinks, Adventure and Fun: $65
  • Cancun Walking Food Tour: Local Food, Markets, and Street Art.: $77
  • Puerto Morelos Walking Food Tour: $77
  • Mexican Cooking Class with fresh Local Market ingredients selection and transpor: $79
  • Cancun Taco & Mexican Food Tour with Tequila Tasting: $79
  • Cancun Private Mural Art and Food Tour: $81
  • Hands-On Cooking Class in Drink & Cook Authentic Dishes: $85
  • Pirate’s Night Out: Dinner and Entertainment in the Caribbean: $89
  • Unforgettable Pirate Dinner Adventure in the Mexican Caribbean: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cancun $32
    Breckenridge $82
Typical Entertainment Prices in Cancun

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Cancun's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Seasick Pills
    $0.54
  • Whale Shark Tour (for 2)
    $92

Tours and Activities in Cancun

For Cancun, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • ATV Tour, Zip Lines, Horseback Riding, Cenote and Tequila Tasting: $10
  • Tour to Kin Ha Cenotes with Craft Jewelry Workshop : $12
  • Tulum Mayan Ruins + Shopping Tour + Tulum Jaguar Park: $13
  • Discover Isla Mujeres tour with snorkel, buffet and open bar : $14
  • Visit to 5th Avenue in Playa del Carmen + Shopping Tour: $14
  • Speedboat jungle tour and snorkel: $15
  • Tour to Tulum and Cenote for the best price! : $16
  • Full Day Tour to Coba and Tulum Cenote Swim and Lunch: $16
  • Catamaran Adventure in Cancun: $16
  • Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour with Snorkeling, Open Bar and Buffet: $16
  • Chichen Itza full day tour: $16
  • Chichen Itza Tour Full day food included: $16

Tours and Activities in Breckenridge

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

  • 3 Hours 30 Minutes Colorado Astrophotography Experience: $260
  • Astronomy Tour in Breckenridge : $59
  • Breckenridge Downtown Smartphone Guided Audio Walking Tour : $7.75
  • Breckenridge Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Breckenridge Tours - Ghostly Tales : $35
  • Breckenridge Tours - Strange but True: $33
  • Breckenridge, CO: Guided Backcountry Ski Tour: $303
  • Breckenridge, CO: Guided Rock Climb Adventure: $204
  • Continental Divide Tour: $155
  • Half-Day Upper Colorado River Float Tour from Kremmling: $94
  • Island Kayak Tour Experience in Frisco: $65
  • Real Gold Mine Tour with, gold panning and more: $47

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cancun $12
    Breckenridge $38

Sample the Local Flavors in Cancun

Also in Cancun, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Social Pub Crawl in Cancun: $35
  • Bar Crawl Madness Tour in Cancun: $99

Sample the Local Flavors in Breckenridge

Also in Breckenridge, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Ridden-Fall Foliage Breckenridge Fat Bike Beer & Distillery Tour: $85
  • Ridden-Breckenridge Fat Bike Beer and Distillery Tour: $85


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

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


Which is Bigger, Cancun or Breckenridge?

Cancun has a larger population, and is about 190 times larger than the population of Breckenridge. When comparing the sizes of Cancun and Breckenridge, 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.