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

Should you visit Cozumel or Orlando?

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

Cozumel

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

Orlando

Orlando is a family-friendly, entertaining, and active city. Other reasons to visit include theater, nightlife, and food. See Orlando travel costs.

Cozumel and Orlando: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cozumel or Orlando?

Both Orlando and Cozumel have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Cozumel is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Orlando is known for its theatre productions, food, and resorts. Cozumel is popular for its beautiful beaches and world class dive sites. Orlando is popular for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities.

How is Cozumel different from Orlando?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Cozumel or Orlando Better for Theater?

Orlando is very good for theatre. However, Cozumel is not a theatre destination.

If you have some extra time in Orlando, take in a show. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

Cozumel is not a theatre destination.

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

Orlando is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Cozumel is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Orlando. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in 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.

Is Cozumel or Orlando Better for Nightlife?

Cozumel is great for nightlife. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Cozumel for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Orlando. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

Is Cozumel or Orlando Better for Resorts?

Orlando is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. Also, Cozumel is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its resorts.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Orlando is a perfect choice. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

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.

Is Cozumel or Orlando Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cozumel is renowned for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Orlando 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.

Orlando is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cozumel or Orlando Better for Beaches?

Cozumel is renowned for its beaches. However, Orlando 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.

Orlando is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cozumel or Orlando?

If you're looking to go shopping, Cozumel and Orlando 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.

Orlando is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

Is Cozumel or Orlando More Beautiful?

Cozumel is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Orlando is not a destination known for its beauty.

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

Orlando is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cozumel or Orlando Better for Families?

Orlando is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cozumel is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Orlando is one of the most popular family destinations. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

Cozumel is a very kid-friendly island. 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.

Is Cozumel or Orlando Better for Couples?

Cozumel is great for romance. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

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.

Orlando makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.

Is Cozumel or Orlando Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cozumel is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Orlando 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.

Orlando is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not exactly a backpacker destination, but there are a surprising number of cheap motels that aren't affiliated with the major parks.

Is Cozumel or Orlando Better for Students?

Orlando is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Cozumel is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Orlando. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

Cozumel is not popular with students.

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

Cozumel and Orlando both offer decent 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 Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

Is Cozumel or Orlando a more walkable city?

Cozumel is great for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination 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.

Orlando is not a walkable island. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Orlando or Cozumel?

How long in Cozumel or Orlando?

Both Cozumel and Orlando have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Cozumel has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Cozumel than Orlando. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Cozumel, and 7 days is enough time in Orlando.

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

Couples should spend more time in Cozumel than Orlando. 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 Orlando 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 Orlando?

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 Orlando, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 Orlando?

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 Orlando, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Orlando?

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.

Orlando 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 Orlando has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Cozumel or Orlando?

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 Orlando. In Orlando, you'll find theater and nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Cozumel or Orlando?

Orlando has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Cozumel. When comparing the sizes of Cozumel and Orlando, 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.