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

Should you visit Cozumel 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 Cozumel and Breckenridge can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cozumel

Cozumel is a lively, vibrant, and active island. Cozumel is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Cozumel travel costs.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a nature-filled, charming, and breathtaking ski resort. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Breckenridge is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and skiing. See Breckenridge travel costs.

Cozumel and Breckenridge: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • 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


Is there more to do in Cozumel or Breckenridge?

Both Breckenridge and Cozumel have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Cozumel is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Breckenridge attracts visitors for its skiing, historical sights, hiking, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Cozumel is more touristy than Breckenridge and is popular for its beautiful beaches and world class dive sites. Breckenridge is famous for its world-class ski resorts, its charming small town atmosphere, and its family-friendly environment.

How is Cozumel different from Breckenridge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Cozumel or Breckenridge Better for Skiing?

Cozumel
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a must-visit destination for skiing. However, Cozumel 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.

Cozumel is not a skiing destination.


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

Cozumel
Breckenridge

Cozumel is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

Cozumel offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Check out the Island Museum, the Coral Reefs Monument, and some of the local Mayan ruins. Also worth a visit is Cozumel's Lighthouse.

Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Cozumel
Breckenridge

Both Cozumel and Breckenridge offer a number of nice restaurants to choose from.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Cozumel. You'll find a mix of tourist restaurants and hidden gems that serve up authentic Mexican dishes. Wander off the main streets to find the restaurants that are tucked away from the cruise ship crowds.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Breckenridge. 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 Cozumel or Breckenridge Better for Nightlife?

Cozumel
Breckenridge

Cozumel is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its evening party scene.

Cozumel offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is filled with cocktail lounges, beachfront bars, and wild weekend parties. There is something for everyone, whether you'll looking to sip wine by the ocean or party into the early morning.

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 Cozumel or Breckenridge Better for Resorts?

Cozumel
Breckenridge

Cozumel is a well-known place for its resorts. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its luxury resorts.

Cozumel is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are hotels in the city center, and resorts by the beaches. For diving and snorkeling, stay in Southern Cozumel. Golfing and waterfront properties are popular in Northern Cozumel.

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 Cozumel or Breckenridge Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cozumel
Breckenridge

Cozumel 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 Cozumel a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. Many people visit Cozumel specifically for the world class diving. Palancar Reef is one of the best dive spots in the area, and thanks to conservation efforts it is rebounding and offers a diverse environment.

Breckenridge is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cozumel or Breckenridge Better for Beaches?

Cozumel
Breckenridge

Cozumel 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 Cozumel. The island is lined with beautiful beaches and you'll find great snorkeling and tourist-friendly amenities. Some of the best beaches are Playa Punta Morena, Playa El Cielo, and Playa Chen Rio.

Breckenridge is not a beach destination.


Is Cozumel or Breckenridge Better for its Old Town?

Cozumel
Breckenridge

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

Breckenridge is a good destination for visiting its old town. Originating as a mining town, there is a historic Main Street that is filled with character.

Cozumel does not have a historic old town.

Is Cozumel or Breckenridge Better for Hiking?

Cozumel
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is very good for hiking. However, Cozumel is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Breckenridge. 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.

Cozumel is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cozumel or Breckenridge?

Cozumel
Breckenridge

If you're looking to go shopping, Cozumel and Breckenridge both offer plenty of great spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cozumel. For the best shopping head to Plaza del Sol, the Royal Village Shopping Center, or Los Cincos Soles. Expect cruise ship crowds and no shortage of tourists.

Breckenridge is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Quaint shops and galleries are throughout the town where you can by gear, artwork, or souvenirs.


Is Cozumel or Breckenridge More Beautiful?

Cozumel
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a great ski resort for its scenery and beauty. Also, Cozumel is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its scenery and beauty.

Breckenridge is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The beautiful mountains make a great backdrop for one of the area's best ski resorts.

Cozumel is a beautiful place to visit, too. The beaches and undersea world are stunningly beautiful.

Is Cozumel or Breckenridge Better for Families?

Cozumel
Breckenridge

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Cozumel or Breckenridge.

Cozumel is a very family-friendly destination. The area is filled with water parks, snorkeling opportunities and, of course, fun-filled beaches. There are also wildlife reserves and Mayan ruins that aren't too far away.

Breckenridge is a very kid-friendly island. 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 Cozumel or Breckenridge Better for Couples?

Cozumel
Breckenridge

Both Cozumel and Breckenridge are great destinations to visit as a couple.

Cozumel is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. Beaches, resorts, and adventure sports make this the perfect couples destination. There are also great restaurants and plenty of interesting places to explore.

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


Is Cozumel or Breckenridge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cozumel
Breckenridge

Cozumel 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.

Cozumel is a great island to visit for backpackers. There are a few hostels in town and it's a safe and easy place to explore independently.

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

Cozumel
Breckenridge

Cozumel and Breckenridge both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cozumel. Local buses don't efficiently travel to the beaches or the hotel areas, so most tourists don't use them.

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

Is Cozumel or Breckenridge a more walkable city?

Cozumel
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a must-visit destination for its walkability. Also, Cozumel is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its high level of walkability.

Breckenridge is a very easy ski resort to get around on foot. The town is designed to be pedestrian-friendly.

Cozumel is a very walkable island. It's easy to walk around the downtown as it's compact and fun to explore on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Breckenridge or Cozumel?

How long in Cozumel or Breckenridge?

Both Cozumel and Breckenridge have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Breckenridge has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Breckenridge than Cozumel. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cozumel 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 Cozumel.


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

One day in Cozumel or Breckenridge?

In Cozumel, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this colorful island 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 is a small town with plenty to do. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. This ski resort offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Cozumel or Breckenridge?

Cozumel 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 might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Cozumel or Breckenridge?

In Cozumel, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this scenic 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.

Breckenridge is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Breckenridge has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Cozumel or Breckenridge?

Cozumel 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Breckenridge. Breckenridge is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best Adventure Tours to Mexico, 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 Cozumel?

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

  • Cozumel Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Breckenridge Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cozumel $122
    Breckenridge $301

The average daily cost (per person) in Cozumel is $122, 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 Cozumel and Breckenridge in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cozumel $63
    Breckenridge $143
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cozumel $126
    Breckenridge $286
Compare Hotels in Cozumel and Breckenridge

Looking for a hotel in Cozumel 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 Cozumel


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: Cozumel Hotel Prices and Breckenridge Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cozumel $21
    Breckenridge $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cozumel

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

  • Shared Transfer from Airport to Hotel: $27
  • Mexico Cozumel Airport (CZM) to Cozumel -Arrival Private Transfer: $51
  • ATV tour to jade cavern with transfer (single or double): $55
  • Cozumel Mayan Experience And Beach Getaway with Transfer: $55
  • Cozumel Jungle ATV Tour Adventure and Caverns with transfer: $65
  • Private One Way Transfer from Cozumel to Cozumel Airport: $67
  • Private One Way Transfer from Cozumel Airport to Cozumel: $67
  • Mexico Cozumel Airport (CZM) to Cozumel Cruise Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $77
  • ATV Adventure to Jade Cavern with transfer: $83
  • Private Transfer from Cozumel Port to Cozumel Airport (CZM): $93
  • Cozumel Airport (CZM) to Cozumel Cruise Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $154

Is it cheaper to fly into Cozumel or Breckenridge?

Prices for flights to both Breckenridge and Cozumel 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
    Cozumel $37
    Breckenridge $119

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cozumel

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

  • Under the Stars Twilight Snorkel and Seaside Dinner at Money Bar: $90
  • Cozumel Food Tour: $90
  • Cozumel Food Tour: $110

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cozumel $40
    Breckenridge $82

Tours and Activities in Cozumel

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Cozumel.

  • Skip the Line: Admission Ticket to El Cedral Town and Mayan Temple: $16
  • Transparent Boat Tour in See Marine Life Up Close: $19
  • Crystal Boat Trip and Snorkeling Tour from Cozumel: $19
  • Crystal-clear Boat trip & Snorkeling tour: $19
  • Tequila History and Tasting Experience and Unlimited Beach Break: $25
  • El Cielo Snorkeling Adventure in Cozumel: $28
  • Cozumel’s Mayan Journey: Dance, Rituals, and Tasting Tour: $29
  • Cozumel Snorkeling Tour: Palancar, Columbia and El Cielo Reefs: $29
  • Island Tour in Cozumel, Mayan Show & Tacos: $30
  • Transparent Boating and Snorkeling Tour in Cozumel All Inclusive: $32
  • Bicycle Adventure With Snorkel and Lunch: $33
  • VIP Glass Bottom Boat & Snorkeling 3 Reefs Tour: $35

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
    Cozumel $10
    Breckenridge $38

Sample the Local Flavors in Cozumel

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Cozumel:

  • Chocolate Seaside Workshop & Wine Tasting: $45
  • Downtown Cozumel and Brewery Experience: $69
  • Rum and Gin at Cozumel First Distillery : $99
  • Craft Beer Tasting Experience with Brewery Tour: $99
  • Cozumel Mixology Experience at Distillery : $109

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 Cozumel and Breckenridge, we can see that Breckenridge is more expensive. And not only is Cozumel much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cozumel would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cozumel 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 Cozumel.

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


Which is Bigger, Cozumel or Breckenridge?

Cozumel has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Breckenridge. When comparing the sizes of Cozumel 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.