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

Should you visit Cozumel or Tallahassee?

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

Cozumel

Cozumel is a colorful, scenic, and lively island. Cozumel offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Cozumel travel costs.

Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a vibrant, youthful, and lively city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, shopping, and museums. See Tallahassee travel costs.

Cozumel and Tallahassee: 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
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Cozumel or Tallahassee?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Cozumel than Tallahassee. While Tallahassee is larger than Cozumel, Cozumel has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Cozumel is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Tallahassee is more popular for its museums and attractions. Cozumel is more touristy than Tallahassee and is known for its beautiful beaches and world class dive sites. Also, Cozumel is famous for Palancar Reef. Tallahassee is well known for its capital building and many universities.

How is Cozumel different from Tallahassee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cozumel
Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Cozumel is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Tallahassee specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. As the capital city of Florida, you'll find a number of museums around town. Tallahassee Museum has outdoor and indoor space to explore. You can also visit the Tallahassee Automobile Museum, the Museum of Florida History, or the Florida Historic Capital Museum.

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.


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

Cozumel
Tallahassee

Cozumel is a island with good options for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Cozumel is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Tallahassee offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find plenty of chain restaurants and cheap eateries that cater to the students. The main options are classic American restaurants with a few international restaurants mixed in as well.

Is Cozumel or Tallahassee Better for Nightlife?

Cozumel
Tallahassee

Cozumel is great for its evening party scene. Also, Tallahassee is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

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 Tallahassee. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the student population. There are many bars and pubs that fill up with students on weekends.

Is Cozumel or Tallahassee Better for Resorts?

Cozumel
Tallahassee

Cozumel is great for its luxury resorts. However, Tallahassee is not a resort destination.

In Cozumel, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

Tallahassee is not a resort destination.


Is Cozumel or Tallahassee Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cozumel
Tallahassee

Cozumel is an amazing island to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Tallahassee is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Cozumel is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Tallahassee is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cozumel or Tallahassee Better for Beaches?

Cozumel
Tallahassee

Cozumel is an amazing island to visit for the beach. However, Tallahassee is not a beach destination.

Cozumel is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Tallahassee is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cozumel or Tallahassee?

Cozumel
Tallahassee

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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.

Tallahassee is a great destination for shopping. There is no shortage of strip malls and shopping centers in the area. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at Railroad Square and Market Square.


Is Cozumel or Tallahassee More Beautiful?

Cozumel
Tallahassee

Cozumel is a island with good options for its scenery and beauty. However, Tallahassee is not a destination known for its beauty.

Cozumel offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The beaches and undersea world are stunningly beautiful.

Tallahassee is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cozumel or Tallahassee Better for Families?

Cozumel
Tallahassee

Cozumel is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tallahassee is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Cozumel. 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.

Tallahassee is a family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of outdoor parks and adventure activities for kids. You could also see the wild manatees at Wakulla Springs.

Is Cozumel or Tallahassee Better for Couples?

Cozumel
Tallahassee

Cozumel is great for couples. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for romance.

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.

Tallahassee is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Head to a restaurant or bar. You could also check out a concert or explore a garden or park in town.


Is Cozumel or Tallahassee Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cozumel
Tallahassee

Cozumel is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Tallahassee is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Cozumel. There are a few hostels in town and it's a safe and easy place to explore independently.

Plenty of backpackers visit Tallahassee. The student population creates an environment that is welcoming to backpackers. There's also a hostel in town with affordable rooms.

Is Cozumel or Tallahassee Better for Students?

Cozumel
Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Cozumel is not popular with students.

Tallahassee is very popular with students. Both Florida State University and Florida A&M University are located here. There's a large student population with many activities and cheap restaurants that appeal to the student crowd.

Cozumel is not popular with students.

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

Cozumel
Tallahassee

Cozumel and Tallahassee both offer respectable 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 Tallahassee. There is a bus system operated by StarMetro.


Is Cozumel or Tallahassee a more walkable city?

Cozumel
Tallahassee

Cozumel is great for its ease of walking around. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its walkability.

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

Tallahassee is generally not very walkable. There are a couple of walkable areas around Railroad Square, Downtown, and Midtown, but for the most part the city is not pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Tallahassee or Cozumel?

How long in Cozumel or Tallahassee?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cozumel or Tallahassee to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Cozumel than Tallahassee because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Cozumel, and 1-2 days is enough time in Tallahassee.

Families should spend more time in Cozumel than Tallahassee. 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 Tallahassee. 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 Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cozumel 3-7 
    Tallahassee 1-2

One day in Cozumel or Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the colorful island of Cozumel. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Tallahassee, you'll find museums and nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Cozumel or Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the active destination of Cozumel. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This island offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

In Tallahassee, you'll find nightlife 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 Tallahassee has to offer.


Five days in Cozumel or Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the colorful island of Cozumel. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Cozumel. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this island.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tallahassee. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Tallahassee. 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 Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.


Which place is cheaper, Tallahassee 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
    Tallahassee Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cozumel $122
    Tallahassee $190

The average daily cost (per person) in Cozumel is $122, while the average daily cost in Tallahassee is $190. 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 Tallahassee in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cozumel $63
    Tallahassee $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cozumel $126
    Tallahassee $178
Compare Hotels in Cozumel and Tallahassee

Looking for a hotel in Cozumel or Tallahassee? 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 Tallahassee


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 Tallahassee Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cozumel $21
    Tallahassee $33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cozumel

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Cozumel or Tallahassee?

Prices for flights to both Tallahassee 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
    Tallahassee $82

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
    Tallahassee $12

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 Tallahassee

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

  • Experience Tranquility with a Picnic at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Luxury Picnic Experience at Pedrick Pond Park: $108
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $215
  • Treacherous Tallahassee Ghost Tours: $24

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cozumel $10
    Tallahassee $53

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 Tallahassee

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Tallahassee:

  • Tallahassee Bar Crawl: $15


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


Which is Bigger, Cozumel or Tallahassee?

Tallahassee has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Cozumel. When comparing the sizes of Cozumel and Tallahassee, 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.