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

Should you visit Cozumel or Halifax?

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

Cozumel

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

Halifax

Halifax is a cultural, historical, and friendly city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Halifax travel costs.

Cozumel and Halifax: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Cozumel or Halifax?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Cozumel than Halifax. While Halifax is larger than Cozumel, Cozumel has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Cozumel is more touristy than Halifax and is known for its beautiful beaches and world class dive sites. It is also home to Palancar Reef. Halifax is popular for its maritime past.

How is Cozumel different from Halifax?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cozumel
Halifax

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

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.

Halifax offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You should head to Pier 21, where you'll find the Canadian Museum of Immigration. The Discovery Center is a great spot for kids, as is the Natural History Museum. Finally, check out the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.


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

Cozumel
Halifax

Both Cozumel and Halifax offer a number of good 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 Halifax. You'll find lobster rolls and other seafood around town, but also make sure you try the Halifax donair, which is a shaved beef sandwich wrap that can be found a many pizza restaurants.

Is Cozumel or Halifax Better for Nightlife?

Cozumel
Halifax

Cozumel is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Cozumel has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Halifax has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a laid back atmosphere to the nightlife scene. There are casual bars and pubs where you can meet the locals and a few nightclubs where there's a relaxed but fun atmosphere.

Is Cozumel or Halifax Better for Resorts?

Cozumel
Halifax

Cozumel is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Halifax is not a resort destination.

Cozumel is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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.

Halifax is not a resort destination.


Is Cozumel or Halifax Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cozumel
Halifax

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

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

Halifax is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cozumel or Halifax Better for Beaches?

Cozumel
Halifax

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

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

Halifax is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cozumel or Halifax?

Cozumel
Halifax

Cozumel is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Halifax offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find a mix of boutiques, artisan shops, large malls, and shopping centers.


Is Cozumel or Halifax More Beautiful?

Cozumel
Halifax

Cozumel is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Halifax is not a destination known for its beauty.

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

Halifax is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cozumel or Halifax Better for Families?

Cozumel
Halifax

Cozumel is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Halifax. There are a handful of kid-friendly museums like the Museum of Natural History. Kids will also appreciate a visit to the Discovery Center or stretching their legs at Point Pleasant Park. History lovers should go see the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.

Is Cozumel or Halifax Better for Couples?

Cozumel
Halifax

Cozumel is a very popular place for romance. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Cozumel makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Halifax makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can wander down the waterfront or take a stroll through Point Pleasant Park. The city also has number of romantic restaurants and hotels.


Is Cozumel or Halifax Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cozumel
Halifax

Cozumel is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Halifax is a good island to visit for backpackers. There's actually a decent number of hostels around town for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Cozumel
Halifax

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

While Halifax offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses around town as well as a ferry to Dartmouth.

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 Halifax a more walkable city?

Cozumel
Halifax

Cozumel is a very popular place for its walkability. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

Halifax is a somewhat walkable place. It's a compact town that's relatively easy to explore on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Halifax or Cozumel?

How long in Cozumel or Halifax?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cozumel and Halifax. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cozumel than in Halifax. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Cozumel, and 2-3 days is enough time in Halifax.

Families should spend more time in Cozumel than Halifax. 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.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cozumel than Halifax 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 Halifax? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cozumel 3-7 
    Halifax 2-3

One day in Cozumel or Halifax?

In Cozumel, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Halifax, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Halifax?

In Cozumel, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

In Halifax, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Halifax has to offer.

Five days in Cozumel or Halifax?

Cozumel is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cozumel has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Halifax is a great place to explore. 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 Halifax?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cozumel. In Cozumel, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Halifax. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Halifax. 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 G Adventures Tours to Canada, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Vancouver.


Which place is cheaper, Halifax or Cozumel?

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 Cozumel is $122, while the average daily cost in Halifax is $137. 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 Halifax in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cozumel $63
    Halifax $65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cozumel $126
    Halifax $130
Compare Hotels in Cozumel and Halifax

Looking for a hotel in Cozumel or Halifax? 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 Halifax


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 Halifax Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cozumel $21
    Halifax $17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cozumel

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

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Halifax

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

  • Private Arrival Transfer from Halifax Stanfield Airport YHZ: $85

Is it cheaper to fly into Cozumel or Halifax?

Prices for flights to both Halifax 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
    Halifax $54

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

Typical Food Prices in Halifax

For Halifax, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Bluenose II Restaurant
    $45

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Halifax

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

  • Peggy's Cove Small Group Night Tour with Dinner: $157

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cozumel $40
    Halifax $28

Tours and Activities in Cozumel

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

  • 10 Experiences Tour : $200
  • 15-minute Private Parasailing Experience in Cozumel: $78
  • 4 Hour Cozumel Turtle Sanctuary Experience on a Luxury Catamarán : $72
  • 4 Hour Snorkeling Tour in Cozumel: $55
  • ATV Adventour: Jade Cave Cenote, Transportation & Tequila: $87
  • ATV Adventure to Jade Cavern Double: $113
  • ATV Adventure to Mayan Jade Cavern plus Snorkeling and Lunch: $79
  • ATV Jungle Adventure to Hidden Mayan Ruins and Caves: $89
  • ATV Seashore + Cenote Combo: Mezcalitos & Mayan Cenote Experience: $64
  • ATV and Clear Boat Ride Full Experience in Cozumel: $80
  • Adventure Tour Village ATVs Beach with Snorkeling and Villa Maya: $100
  • Adventure in Punta Sur Ecological Reserve Cozumel: $90

Tours and Activities in Halifax

For Halifax, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Best of Private Walking Tour with a Local: $107
  • Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 Admission & Tour: $14
  • From Peggy's Cove Bus Tour: $75
  • Halifax City Sightseeing by Private a/c vehicle: $151
  • Halifax Guided Driving Tour with Sunset at Peggy’s Cove: $64
  • Halifax Harbourfront Food Walking Tour: $92
  • Halifax Sunset Cruise Aboard the Tall Ship Silva: $33
  • 2-Hour Deep Sea Fishing Tour: $94
  • 2-Hour Sea-Doo Sightseeing Tour: $254
  • 50-Minute Boat Tour of the Harbour: $42
  • Best of Halifax Harbour Tour: $40
  • Georges Island Kayak Tour: $74

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cozumel $10
    Halifax $15

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 Halifax

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Halifax:

  • Nova Scotia Annapolis Valley Wine Tour Lead by a Sommelier: $168
  • The Classic Vintage Car Wine Tour: $206


When comparing the travel costs between Cozumel and Halifax, we can see that Halifax is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Cozumel or Halifax?

Halifax has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Cozumel. When comparing the sizes of Cozumel and Halifax, 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.