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

Should you visit Cancun or Vernon?

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

Cancun

Cancun is a active, adventurous, and wild city. With stunning beauty, Cancun attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Cancun travel costs.

Vernon

Vernon is a relaxing, quiet, and peaceful town. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Vernon travel costs.

Cancun and Vernon: 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
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Cancun or Vernon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cancun. Although Cancun and Vernon are both popular with visitors, Cancun has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cancun is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Vernon is known for its hiking. Cancun is more touristy than Vernon and is popular for its water sports, white sand beaches, popularity at spring break, and access to Mayan ruins. It is also home to . Vernon is popular for its surrounding valley with lakes and hiking trails.



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How is Cancun different from Vernon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cancun
Vernon

Cancun is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Vernon 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.

Vernon is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are local galleries and museums that offer information on the region's history and culture. You can visit the Canadian Wildlife Museum, the Caetani Center, the Museum and Archives of Vernon, the Paddlewheel Park Stationhouse Museum, and the Vernon Public Art Gallery.


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

Cancun
Vernon

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at good restaurants in both Cancun and Vernon.

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 Vernon area. The region is known for its vineyards and wineries and many of the local restaurants have been around for generations. The food is often locally produced and prepared with traditional recipes.

Is Cancun or Vernon Better for Nightlife?

Cancun
Vernon

Cancun is terrific for its evening party scene. However, Vernon is not a good town for nightlife.

Cancun is a must-see party destination. 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 Vernon. The town gets very quiet in the evenings, so you won't find much of a nightlife scene.

Is Cancun or Vernon Better for Resorts?

Cancun
Vernon

Cancun is terrific for its resorts. However, Vernon 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.

Vernon is not a resort destination.


Is Cancun or Vernon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cancun
Vernon

Cancun is terrific for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Vernon 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.

Vernon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cancun or Vernon Better for Beaches?

Cancun
Vernon

Cancun is terrific for the beach. However, Vernon 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.

Vernon is not a beach destination.

Is Cancun or Vernon Better for Hiking?

Cancun
Vernon

Vernon 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 Vernon. The surrounding valley has more than 300 kilometers of hiking trails. They run along pristine lakes, pass by granite rock formations, and take you to impressive viewpoints.

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 Vernon?

Cancun
Vernon

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Cancun and Vernon.

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 Vernon to go shopping. There are a number of boutique shops that are fun to explore in the downtown area.

Is Cancun or Vernon More Beautiful?

Cancun
Vernon

Cancun is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Vernon is not a destination known for its 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.

Vernon is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cancun or Vernon Better for Families?

Cancun
Vernon

Cancun is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Vernon 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.

Vernon is a family-friendly city. There are biking and hiking trails as well as other outdoor activities. You can also visit the Allan Brooks Nature Center or the Rock Garden Climbing Center.


Is Cancun or Vernon Better for Couples?

Cancun
Vernon

Cancun is terrific for couples. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

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.

Vernon is a nice destination for couples. It offers a peaceful getaway for couples. You can visit the Okanagan wineries or enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also nice restaurants to try.

Is Cancun or Vernon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cancun
Vernon

Cancun is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Vernon is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Cancun is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Vernon is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel in town, but this isn't a popular destination for backpackers.

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

Cancun
Vernon

Cancun is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Vernon is not a good 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 Vernon. There is a bus system, but it's better not to rely on it.


Is Cancun or Vernon a more walkable city?

Cancun
Vernon

Cancun is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Vernon is not a good town 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.

Vernon is generally not a very walkable city. You'll really want to have a car to make the most of your time here.

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

Should I spend more time in Vernon or Cancun?

How long in Cancun or Vernon?

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

Families should spend more time in Cancun than Vernon. 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 Vernon. 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 Vernon 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 Vernon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cancun 4-7 
    Vernon 1-3

One day in Cancun or Vernon?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Cancun. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Vernon. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Cancun or Vernon?

Cancun is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Vernon 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 Vernon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cancun. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Vernon. 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 Vernon?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the adventurous destination of Cancun. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the relaxing destination of Vernon. 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 Coach Bus Tours in Canada, and The Best Adventure Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Vernon or Cancun?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cancun is $153, while the average daily cost in Vernon is $49. 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 Vernon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cancun $89
    Vernon $4.81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cancun $178
    Vernon $9.62
Compare Hotels in Cancun and Vernon

Looking for a hotel in Cancun or Vernon? 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 Vernon


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 Vernon Hotel Prices.

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

Prices for flights to both Vernon 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
    Vernon $43
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
    Vernon -
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
    Vernon $13

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 Vernon, we can see that Cancun is more expensive. And not only is Vernon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Vernon would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Vernon 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 Cancun would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cancun than you might in Vernon.

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


Which is Bigger, Cancun or Vernon?

Cancun has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Vernon. When comparing the sizes of Cancun and Vernon, 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.