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

Should you visit Cozumel or Gatlinburg?

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

Cozumel

Cozumel is a vibrant, active, and colorful island. Cozumel is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Cozumel travel costs.

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a flashy, high energy, and wild city. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and skiing. See Gatlinburg travel costs.

Cozumel and Gatlinburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cozumel or Gatlinburg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cozumel. Although Cozumel and Gatlinburg are both popular with visitors, Cozumel has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cozumel is more popular for its food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Gatlinburg is known for its skiing, nightlife, and hiking. Cozumel is popular for its beautiful beaches and world class dive sites. It is also home to Palancar Reef. Gatlinburg is popular for its countless entertainment venues as well as its easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

How is Cozumel different from Gatlinburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Cozumel or Gatlinburg Better for Skiing?

Gatlinburg is very good for skiing. However, Cozumel is not a skiing destination.

Gatlinburg is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. Ober Gatlinburg is the only ski area in Tennessee. The winter activities open after Thanksgiving and include snow skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and tubing.

Cozumel is not a skiing destination.

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

Spend time exploring the good sights and museums in either Cozumel or Gatlinburg.

Cozumel is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Check out the Island Museum, the Coral Reefs Monument, and some of the local Mayan ruins. Also worth a visit is Cozumel's Lighthouse.

Gatlinburg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Museums range from gaudy to quirky. Check out the Hollywood Star Cars Museum, the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Hollywood Wax Museum, and the Titanic Museum. There's also the Gatlinburg Space Needle and the Gatlinburg SkyBridge.

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

Cozumel is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Gatlinburg is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Gatlinburg. Staying true to form, restaurants in Gatlinburg cater to the tourist scene and serve up burgers, pizza, pancakes, and other classic favorites.

Is Cozumel or Gatlinburg Better for Nightlife?

Gatlinburg is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Cozumel is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife and partying.

Gatlinburg is a world class party destination. Live music, theatrical shows, as well as bars and clubs that stay open late into the night give this town a huge party atmosphere. During the peak season the town is packed with people looking to have a good time and you'll find tons of things to do by simply walking down the main drag.

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.

Is Cozumel or Gatlinburg Better for Resorts?

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Cozumel and Gatlinburg.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Cozumel. 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.

Gatlinburg is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are plenty of resorts and vacation clubs near town. Many have pools, waterslides, or hot tubs.

Is Cozumel or Gatlinburg Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cozumel is renowned for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Gatlinburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Cozumel is not to be missed. 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.

Gatlinburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cozumel or Gatlinburg Better for Beaches?

Cozumel is renowned for its beaches. However, Gatlinburg is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Cozumel is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

Gatlinburg is not a beach destination.

Is Cozumel or Gatlinburg Better for Hiking?

Gatlinburg is a great city for hiking. However, Cozumel is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Gatlinburg for the hiking trails. You'll need to head out of town into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but once you're there the hiking is impressive. There are waterfall hikes, trails to viewpoints, and loops that take you through wildflowers. Some of the most popular trails include Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Middle Prong Trail, and the Gatlinburg Trail.

Cozumel is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cozumel or Gatlinburg?

Cozumel is great for shopping. Also, Gatlinburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Gatlinburg offers some nice shopping areas. There are tourist traps and souvenir shops around town, but you can also head to the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community where you can meet local artists and learn about their work.

Is Cozumel or Gatlinburg More Beautiful?

Cozumel is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Gatlinburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

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

Gatlinburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cozumel or Gatlinburg Better for Families?

Cozumel is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination.

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.

Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination. Ober Gatlinburg is a combination ski resort and amusement park that is a highlight for many families. During the warmer season, horseback riding and waterparks are popular. There's also a Ripley's Aquarium, minigolf, and Gatlin's Fun Center. Nearby you'll find Dollywood and Pigeon Forge.

Is Cozumel or Gatlinburg Better for Couples?

Both Cozumel and Gatlinburg are very good 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.

Gatlinburg is a very popular place to visit for couples. If you're looking for a flashy and ostentatious experience, then there are all the typical activities around town - Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Gatlinburg Space Needle, or Ober Gatlinburg. For a bit more nature, you can head out of town and enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also breweries and wineries in the area, as well as a range of resorts.

Is Cozumel or Gatlinburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cozumel is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Gatlinburg is not a good destination for backpackers.

Cozumel is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a few hostels in town and it's a safe and easy place to explore independently.

Gatlinburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a touristy town with plenty of cheap motels in the area. There are also campgrounds and hiking not far away.

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

Gatlinburg is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Cozumel is not known for its public transit.

While Gatlinburg offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a free trolley service that offers a convenient way to get around town.

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

Is Cozumel or Gatlinburg a more walkable city?

Cozumel and Gatlinburg are very good when it comes to walkability.

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

Gatlinburg is a very walkable island. The downtown area is pedestrian-friendly and most of the attractions in town can be reached on foot. If you want to leave town, a car is a must, but in town traffic and parking can be frustrating, so walk when you can.

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

Should I spend more time in Gatlinburg or Cozumel?

How long in Cozumel or Gatlinburg?

It's fun to spend time in either Cozumel or Gatlinburg. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Cozumel due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Cozumel, and 2-4 days is enough time in Gatlinburg.

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

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

One day in Cozumel or Gatlinburg?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the lively island of Cozumel, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Gatlinburg, you'll find skiing and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This city 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 Gatlinburg?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Cozumel, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Gatlinburg, you'll find nightlife and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Gatlinburg has to offer.

Five days in Cozumel or Gatlinburg?

Cozumel, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Gatlinburg is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Cozumel or Gatlinburg?

Cozumel is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this island makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Gatlinburg. Many people enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting Gatlinburg. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best Adventure Tours to Mexico, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.

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

Which is Bigger, Cozumel or Gatlinburg?

Cozumel has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Gatlinburg. When comparing the sizes of Cozumel and Gatlinburg, 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.