A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cancun vs. Cherokee for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Cancun or Cherokee?

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 Cherokee can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cancun

Cancun is a active, adventurous, and wild city. Cancun is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food. See Cancun travel costs.

Cherokee

Cherokee is a genuine, fascinating, and cultural town. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Cherokee travel costs.

Cancun and Cherokee: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Cancun or Cherokee?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cancun. Although Cancun and Cherokee are popular destinations, Cancun has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cancun is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Cherokee attracts visitors for its hiking. Cancun is more touristy than Cherokee and is popular for its water sports, white sand beaches, popularity at spring break, and access to Mayan ruins. It is also well known for . Cherokee is famous for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails.



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How is Cancun different from Cherokee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cancun
Cherokee

Cancun is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Cancun can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Cherokee offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Many of the museums educate visitors on the Native American culture. Oconaluftee Indian Village, the Museum of the Cherokee People, and the Mountain Farm Museum each offer a unique and interesting perspective.


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

Cancun
Cherokee

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at nice restaurants in both Cancun and Cherokee.

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 Cherokee area. There are casual sandwich shops as well as several places that offer traditional Cherokee foods such as fry bread.

Is Cancun or Cherokee Better for Nightlife?

Cancun
Cherokee

Cancun is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

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

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Cherokee. The town is generally quiet but you can head to Harrah's Cherokee Casino for drinks and entertainment.

Is Cancun or Cherokee Better for Resorts?

Cancun
Cherokee

Cancun is an amazing city to visit for its resorts. However, Cherokee is not a resort destination.

Cancun offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Cherokee is not a resort destination.


Is Cancun or Cherokee Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cancun
Cherokee

Cancun is an amazing city to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Cherokee is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Cancun specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. 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.

Cherokee is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cancun or Cherokee Better for Beaches?

Cancun
Cherokee

Cancun is an amazing city to visit for its beaches. However, Cherokee is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Cancun are among the best in the world. 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.

Cherokee is not a beach destination.

Is Cancun or Cherokee Better for Hiking?

Cancun
Cherokee

Cherokee is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Cancun is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Cherokee. There are many trails in the area that pass through forests, wander by waterfalls, and take you to spectacular viewpoints. The fall foliage is particularly nice during the autumn months.

Cancun has hiking trails worth exploring. There are some beautiful walking paths and hiking trails that are within the area.


Is the Shopping Better in Cancun or Cherokee?

Cancun
Cherokee

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Cancun and Cherokee.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cancun. While most people visit for the beaches and nightlife, there are shopping malls and markets where you can enjoy some retail therapy.

Many visitors go to Cherokee to go shopping. There are craft shops and artisan vendors in the downtown area. It's fun to wander around for a few hours.

Is Cancun or Cherokee More Beautiful?

Cancun
Cherokee

Cancun is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, Cherokee is not a destination known for its beauty.

Cancun is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. White sand beaches and clear blue waters make this a beautiful vacation destination. Nearby jungle offers adventure, and the undersea world is magical.

Cherokee is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cancun or Cherokee Better for Families?

Cancun
Cherokee

Cancun is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Cancun is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Cherokee is very family-friendly. It's proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park make this a fun destination for families. There are countless outdoor adventure activities. The town is also filled with Cherokee history and culture, so it offers educational experiences as well.


Is Cancun or Cherokee Better for Couples?

Cancun
Cherokee

Cancun is an amazing city to visit for romance. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its romantic activities.

Cancun has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Cherokee makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Nearby there are many outdoor activities and adventure experiences. Couples who enjoy nature and exploring will appreciate a stay here.

Is Cancun or Cherokee Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cancun
Cherokee

Cancun is notable for backpackers. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Cancun. 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.

Cherokee is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are several great campgrounds in the area as well as plenty of hiking opportunities.

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

Cancun
Cherokee

Cancun is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town 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 Cherokee. There are some bus and shuttle routes, but a private vehicle is important if you want to make the most of your visit.


Is Cancun or Cherokee a more walkable city?

Cancun
Cherokee

Cancun is notable for its walkability. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for its high level of walkability.

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

Cherokee is generally not a very walkable city. If you want to explore the area, you'll need a car to reach most places.

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

Should I spend more time in Cherokee or Cancun?

How long in Cancun or Cherokee?

It's fun to spend time in either Cancun or Cherokee. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Cancun due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Cancun, and 2-4 days is enough time in Cherokee.

Families should spend more time in Cancun than Cherokee. 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 Cherokee. 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 Cherokee 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 Cherokee? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cancun 4-7 
    Cherokee 2-4

One day in Cancun or Cherokee?

The beautiful city of Cancun offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Cherokee. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Cancun or Cherokee?

Cancun is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Cherokee is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Cancun or Cherokee?

Cancun is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cancun, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cherokee. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Cancun or Cherokee?

Cancun is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cancun has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fascinating destination of Cherokee. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


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 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Cherokee 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
    Cherokee Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cancun $153
    Cherokee $186

The average daily cost (per person) in Cancun is $153, while the average daily cost in Cherokee is $186. 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 Cherokee in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cancun $89
    Cherokee $158
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cancun $178
    Cherokee $316
Compare Hotels in Cancun and Cherokee

Looking for a hotel in Cancun or Cherokee? 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 Cherokee


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 Cherokee Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cancun $16
    Cherokee -
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 Cherokee?

Prices for flights to both Cherokee 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
    Cherokee $27
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
    Cherokee -
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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cancun $12
    Cherokee -

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


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


Which is Bigger, Cancun or Cherokee?

Cancun has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Cherokee. When comparing the sizes of Cancun and Cherokee, 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.