A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Florianopolis vs. San Cristobal de Las Casas for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Florianopolis or San Cristobal de Las Casas?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Florianopolis or San Cristobal de Las Casas? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Florianopolis

Florianopolis is a relaxing, scenic, and vibrant city. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Florianopolis travel costs.

San Cristobal de Las Casas

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a cultural, charming, and colorful town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. San Cristobal de Las Casas is a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See San Cristobal de Las Casas travel costs.

Florianopolis and San Cristobal de Las Casas: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Florianopolis or San Cristobal de Las Casas?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Florianopolis than San Cristobal de Las Casas. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Florianopolis is very popular for its resorts, beaches, and hiking, while San Cristobal de Las Casas attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. San Cristobal de Las Casas is more touristy than Florianopolis and is known for its historical buildings, local markets, and traditional churches. Florianopolis is famous for its sandy beaches, world-class surfing, and beautiful nature. It is also well known for Praia Mole.

How is Florianopolis different from San Cristobal de Las Casas?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between San Cristobal de Las Casas and Florianopolis. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Florianopolis or San Cristobal de Las Casas?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. Also, Florianopolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

San Cristobal de Las Casas offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The town is filled with historical churches such as the main Cathedral of San Cristobal. While this is the most notable church, there are also smaller churches worth visiting like the Templo Santo Domingo, Iglesia de Guadalupe, and Iglesia de San Cristobal. For museums, make sure you check out the Centro de Textiles del Mundo Maya, Na Bolom, and Museo de Ambar.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Florianopolis. There are a number of science and cultural museums in the area that will introduce you to the region's local wildlife and history.

Is the Food Better in Florianopolis or San Cristobal de Las Casas? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Florianopolis and San Cristobal de Las Casas both to be high quality destinations.

Florianopolis has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Perhaps the most popular local dish is feijoada, which is a stew that's slow cooked in a clay pot. It's a great dish for sharing and it originated in the region's African slave population. Another common food is pão de queijo, which is a dough that is made from cassava root flour. Also make sure you try the seafood, which is available in many restaurants around town.

Dining out in San Cristobal de Las Casas is an experience not to be missed. The cuisine is a mix of Spanish-influenced cured meats such as ham and sausage, as well as indigenous flavors like tamales and burritos. There's also a lot of great pizza around town as well as several Asian restaurants.

Is Florianopolis or San Cristobal de Las Casas Better for Nightlife?

Both Florianopolis and San Cristobal de Las Casas have high quality vibes after the sun sets.

Florianopolis has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The nightlife scene can vary between peak tourism times and the low season. There are plenty of bars around town that cater to the locals, and you can expect these to be open year round. Alternatively, there are also places that specifically open during the summer months and will close during the off season.

The people in San Cristobal de Las Casas know how to have a good time. There's an active nightlife scene that includes everything from late night clubs to salsa lessons. Most tourists who want to party head to the pedestrian streets around the plaza. There are countless bars where you'll likely find a crowd late into the night. Some clubs have a cover charge on weekends but, in general, drinks are cheap and getting around is easy.

Is Florianopolis or San Cristobal de Las Casas Better for Resorts?

Florianopolis is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a resort destination.

Florianopolis is known as a popular and fun resort destination. You'll find a wide range of resorts that include everything from 5 star to more budget-friendly. There are also all-inclusive resorts and smaller, more personal places.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a resort destination.

Is Florianopolis or San Cristobal de Las Casas Better for Beaches?

Florianopolis is very popular for its beaches. However, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Florianopolis. There are miles of beautiful beaches that are popular for surfing. Joaquina Beach is one of the most popular beaches, particularly with surfers, but Mole Beach is quickly catching up in popularity. Campeche Beach is one of the widest and longest stretches of beach on the island.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a beach destination.

Is Florianopolis or San Cristobal de Las Casas Better for its Old Town?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Florianopolis does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting San Cristobal de Las Casas. The town is filled with narrow pedestrian streets, colorful markets, and historic churches.

Florianopolis does not have a historic old town.

Is Florianopolis or San Cristobal de Las Casas Better for Hiking?

Florianopolis is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Florianopolis. The island is filled with beautiful jungles, striking beaches, and many dramatic settings that make it a great place to hike. The hikes also vary in length and skill level, so there really is something for everyone.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Florianopolis or San Cristobal de Las Casas?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Florianopolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, San Cristobal de Las Casas draws large crowds to its stores. The nearby villages are famous for their weaving, leather, pottery, and embroidery, so many visitors pick up souvenirs at the colorful markets around town. This is one of the best towns in Mexico to purchase local items, and you should definitely set aside time to explore and shop.

Many visitors go to Florianopolis to go shopping. You'll find shopping malls and boutique retail shops that make for a great shopping experience.

Is Florianopolis or San Cristobal de Las Casas More Beautiful?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Florianopolis is not a destination known for its beauty.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a beautiful place to visit, too. Set against the backdrop of mountains, this town is colorful and charming.

Florianopolis is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Florianopolis or San Cristobal de Las Casas Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Florianopolis or San Cristobal de Las Casas.

Florianopolis is a family-friendly city. There are many outdoor activities, sports, beaches, and parks in the city. If your kids like to run around and have fun, you'll find some diverse experiences here.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in San Cristobal de Las Casas. While kids may not appreciate the town's beauty and culture, they will have fun exploring the night market or taking a chocolate-making class. There are pedestrian streets where everyone can explore without fear of traffic and pizza restaurants that appeal to the kids as well.

Is Florianopolis or San Cristobal de Las Casas Better for Couples?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Florianopolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

San Cristobal de Las Casas makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy culture, markets, traditional cuisines, and new experiences will love their time here. It's a fun place to simply wander. You can explore the markets and then eat at a local restaurant before making your way back to your boutique hotel.

Florianopolis is a good city for couples to visit. Couples will enjoy the beautiful beaches and walking paths in the area. There's impressive natural beauty and a touch of undiscovered charm.

Is Florianopolis or San Cristobal de Las Casas Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Florianopolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit San Cristobal de Las Casas. There are a number of hostels in town as well as budget-friendly hotels. Backpackers love the laid back nature of this town as well as the many markets and nature-oriented activities.

Florianopolis is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While it's not the most popular destination in Brazil, it does have a huge appeal with surfers.

Is Florianopolis or San Cristobal de Las Casas Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Florianopolis and San Cristobal de Las Casas.

Florianopolis has some public transit options. There are buses around town, including buses that travel between the downtown and the beaches.

You'll find some public transit in San Cristobal de Las Casas, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Urbano buses are minibuses that connect the town to the outlying residential areas. There are also colectivos that travel to nearby villages.

Is Florianopolis or San Cristobal de Las Casas a more walkable city?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. However, Florianopolis is not a walkable destination.

It's very easy to get around on foot in San Cristobal de Las Casas. Walking is the best way to experience the town. Most of the sights can be reached on foot and there are pedestrian-only streets that let you avoid the traffic.

Florianopolis is not a walkable destination. Most people get around the city with a vehicle.

For even more information, also check out Is Florianopolis Worth Visiting? and Is San Cristobal de Las Casas Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Florianopolis?

How long in Florianopolis or San Cristobal de Las Casas?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Florianopolis and San Cristobal de Las Casas. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Florianopolis than in San Cristobal de Las Casas. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Florianopolis, and 2-3 days is enough time in San Cristobal de Las Casas.

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

Couples should spend more time in San Cristobal de Las Casas than Florianopolis. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in San Cristobal de Las Casas that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Cristobal de Las Casas than Florianopolis 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas.

One day in Florianopolis or San Cristobal de Las Casas?

In Florianopolis, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this scenic destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Even though San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Florianopolis or San Cristobal de Las Casas?

In Florianopolis, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Cristobal de Las Casas. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Florianopolis or San Cristobal de Las Casas?

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Florianopolis. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This city offers something for everyone.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

A week in Florianopolis or San Cristobal de Las Casas?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Florianopolis. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Lots of people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to Brazil, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Brazil, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Mexico City, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Playa del Carmen.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Florianopolis and San Cristobal de Las Casas, we can see that San Cristobal de Las Casas is more expensive. And not only is Florianopolis much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Florianopolis is in South America and San Cristobal de Las Casas is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Florianopolis would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Florianopolis 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in San Cristobal de Las Casas than you might in Florianopolis.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Florianopolis Expensive? and Is San Cristobal de Las Casas Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Florianopolis or San Cristobal de Las Casas?

Florianopolis has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of San Cristobal de Las Casas. When comparing the sizes of Florianopolis and San Cristobal de Las Casas, 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.