A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cancun vs. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Cancun or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cancun

Cancun is a adventurous, wild, and party-hard city. With stunning beauty, Cancun attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food. See Cancun travel costs.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a peaceful, active, and beautiful recreation area. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the hiking. See Chimney Rock and Lake Lure travel costs.

Cancun and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure: 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
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Cancun or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cancun. Although Cancun and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure are both popular with visitors, Cancun has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cancun is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is known for its hiking. Cancun is more touristy than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and is popular for its water sports, white sand beaches, popularity at spring break, and access to Mayan ruins. It is also home to . Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is popular for its beautiful views and fun outdoor activities.



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How is Cancun different from Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Cancun
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Cancun is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Cancun. 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.

While most people don't head to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There's a museum in Chimney Rock State Park, but most visitors spend their time taking advantage of the outdoor activities.


Is the Food Better in Cancun or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cancun
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Cancun is a city with good options for its restaurant scene. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Cancun area. 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Within Chimney Rock Park there's a deli and a cafe. Nearby you'll also find casual eateries with pizza or classic American dishes.

Is Cancun or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Nightlife?

Cancun
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Cancun is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for nightlife.

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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Most people head into nearby Asheville for the best nightlife.

Is Cancun or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Resorts?

Cancun
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Cancun is an amazing city to visit for its resorts. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a resort destination.

Cancun is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a resort destination.


Is Cancun or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cancun
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Cancun is an amazing city to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cancun or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Beaches?

Cancun
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Cancun is an amazing city to visit for the beach. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a beach destination.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a beach destination.

Is Cancun or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Hiking?

Cancun
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. One of the most popular trails in Chimney Rock State Park is The Exclamation Point Trail , which leads to many viewpoints. During the summer and fall seasons the trail can get very crowded. The obvious highlight in the park is Chimney Rock, which is a rock outcropping that offers spectacular views.

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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Cancun
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Cancun is a city with good options for its shopping areas. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for shopping.

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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a good destination for shopping. You'll find the standard shopping centers in the area, but for the best shopping, head over to Asheville.

Is Cancun or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure More Beautiful?

Cancun
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Cancun is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Cancun attracts visitors from all around. White sand beaches and clear blue waters make this a beautiful vacation destination. Nearby jungle offers adventure, and the undersea world is magical.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a gorgeous place to visit. From the top of Chimney Rock there's an impressive view point. The area is also filled with natural beauty and peaceful settings.

Is Cancun or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Families?

Cancun
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Cancun is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Cancun is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a very family-friendly destination. There are plenty of outdoor activities in the area. Head to sliding rock for a fun afternoon. There's also tubing, kayaking, and river rafting nearby. Horseback riding is a fun way to explore a trail, or simply hiking on one of the many paths in the area. You'll also find ziplining and plenty of water activities at the lake.


Is Cancun or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Couples?

Cancun
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Cancun is an amazing city to visit for couples. Also, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Cancun is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There are romantic hotels as well as bed and breakfasts that make for a romantic retreat. Couples who enjoy beautiful outdoor settings and fun adventures will enjoy a weekend trip to the area. There are also local restaurants and a few wineries to explore.

Is Cancun or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cancun
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Cancun and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure are both superb destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are several great campgrounds and plenty of hiking trails that make this a nice budget or backpacker getaway.

Is Cancun or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cancun
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Cancun is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Cancun, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The buses are an efficient way to get around. They stop along Boulevard Kukulcán and throughout the downtown.

Public transit is quite limited in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. There is limited public transit in the area.


Is Cancun or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure a more walkable city?

Cancun
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Cancun is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its walkability.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a very walkable city. The trails and parks in the region are spread out and require a car to access.

For even more information, also check out Is Cancun Worth Visiting? and Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Cancun?

How long in Cancun or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cancun and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cancun than in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Cancun, and 1-3 days is enough time in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure.

Families should spend more time in Cancun than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cancun 4-7 
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 1-3

One day in Cancun or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

In Cancun, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this party-hard destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Cancun or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

In Cancun, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this beautiful destination offers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

In Cancun, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this adventurous destination offers. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

In Cancun, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this beautiful city offers. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the active destination of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. This recreation area 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 Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.


Which place is cheaper, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cancun $153
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234

The average daily cost (per person) in Cancun is $153, while the average daily cost in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is $234. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cancun $89
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cancun $178
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
Compare Hotels in Cancun and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Looking for a hotel in Cancun or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure? 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cancun $16
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $35
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:

  • Cancun Private Round trip Airport Transfer: $65
  • Airport Transfer Cancun: $60
  • Airport Transfers to Costa Mujeres - Private van (ROUND TRIP) FLAT RATE: $215
  • Akumal One Way Or Roundtrip Private Transfer: $139
  • Atv Cancun (cenote, Ziplines, Lunch And Transfer Included) : $49
  • Best SpeedBoat and Snorkeling tour with Transfer from Cancun: $25
  • Cancún Airport (CUN) Cancun hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $77
  • Cancún Airport (CUN) to Akumal - Private Arrival Transfer: $107
  • Cancún Airport (CUN) to Akumal - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $214
  • Cancún Airport (CUN) to Cancun hotel or address - Private Arrival Transfer: $38
  • Cancún Airport (CUN) to El Dorado Maroma - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $212
  • Cancún Airport (CUN) to Playa del Carmen - Private Round-Trip Transfer: $180

Is it cheaper to fly into Cancun or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Prices for flights to both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $91
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
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $34
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
  • Chichen Itza full day tour: $16
  • Catamaran Adventure in Cancun: $16
  • Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour with Snorkeling, Open Bar and Buffet: $16
  • Tour to Tulum and Cenote for the best price! : $16
  • Full Day Tour to Coba and Tulum Cenote Swim and Lunch: $16
  • Chichen Itza Tour Full day food included: $16

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cancun $12
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $21

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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, we can see that Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cancun or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Cancun has a larger population, and is about 3270 times larger than the population of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. When comparing the sizes of Cancun and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, 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.