A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isla Mujeres vs. Alexandria for Families, Couples, Food, and Backpackers

Should you visit Isla Mujeres or Alexandria?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Isla Mujeres and Alexandria. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres is a relaxing, laid back, and idyllic island. Isla Mujeres offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Isla Mujeres travel costs.

Alexandria

Alexandria is a historic, charming, and quaint city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. The beauty of Alexandria is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Alexandria travel costs.

Isla Mujeres and Alexandria: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Isla Mujeres or Alexandria?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Isla Mujeres. Although Isla Mujeres and Alexandria are both popular with visitors, Isla Mujeres has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Isla Mujeres is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Alexandria is known for its museums and attractions, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Isla Mujeres is popular for its award-winning beaches, underwater marine life, and tranquil atmosphere. It is also home to the Underwater Museum of Art. Alexandria is popular for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere.

How is Isla Mujeres different from Alexandria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Isla Mujeres or Alexandria?

Alexandria is notable for its sights and museums. However, Isla Mujeres is a mediocre island for its museums and history.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Alexandria. George Washington's Mount Vernon home is an iconic destination in Alexandria. There are also many other museums in town that focus on the region's history. The Alexandria History Museum at the Lyceum and the Gadsby's Tavern Museum are both interesting. There's Gunston Hall and the Carlyle House, as well as an archeology museum and many historic landmarks around town.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Isla Mujeres. Nobody really heads to this island for the museums.

Is the Food Better in Isla Mujeres or Alexandria? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Isla Mujeres and Alexandria can be an enjoyable experience.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Isla Mujeres. The island has many restaurants, particularly along Hidalgo Street in the Centro area. They typically have a laid back island vibe and serve local seafood or other popular cuisines.

Alexandria has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The food, like the city itself, reflects the area's history. There are many southern classic dishes as well as a lot of seafood. You'll find lots of local restaurants that serve high quality dishes and a quaint atmosphere.

Is Isla Mujeres or Alexandria Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are good in both Isla Mujeres and Alexandria.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Isla Mujeres. Many people visit the island as a day trip, but those who spend the night will enjoy hanging out at the beach bars along Playa Norte. Many have a laid back vibe and some have live music or DJs.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Alexandria. There's a great bar scene, as well as tons of restaurants that make for a relaxing night out.

Is Isla Mujeres or Alexandria Better for Resorts?

Isla Mujeres is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Alexandria is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Isla Mujeres for its luxury resorts. Despite its small size, there are a range of impressive resorts on the island. Accommodation ranges from affordable hostels to stunning luxury resorts.

Alexandria is not a resort destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Alexandria Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Isla Mujeres is an unbeatable place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Alexandria is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Isla Mujeres. There are many great snorkeling and diving areas just off the island. It's easy to arrange tours that will take you to the best spots. Popular areas include Manchones Reef, the Underwater Museum of Art, and Garrafon Natural Park.

Alexandria is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Alexandria Better for Beaches?

Isla Mujeres is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Alexandria is not a beach destination.

Isla Mujeres offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The island has spectacular beaches where the white sand meets the blue water. The idyllic setting is the perfect place to relax with a drink or soak up the island vibe. Playa Norte is an award winning beach that has calm water and stunning snorkeling. Playa Centro has many restaurants and bars, and you'll likely see people sunbathing topless. There's a beach club at Playa Albatros as well as hammocks, umbrellas, and recreational activities.

Alexandria is not a beach destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Alexandria Better for its Old Town?

Alexandria is an unbeatable place for its old town. However, Isla Mujeres does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Alexandria offers plenty to see. At the heart of the city is the historic old town. Its lined with townhomes that date back to the 18th century. There are many historic sights that have stories from the early days of the country. There are also cobblestone streets and a great waterfront.

Isla Mujeres does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Isla Mujeres or Alexandria?

Alexandria is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Isla Mujeres is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its shopping areas.

Alexandria is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. King Street is the main shopping street in town and it offers the largest concentration of independently owned boutiques in the Washington D.C. area. It's the perfectly place to spend an afternoon shopping.

Isla Mujeres has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head downtown for the best opportunities to pick up gifts or souvenirs. You'll find local jewelry, art, and handicrafts.

Is Isla Mujeres or Alexandria More Beautiful?

Alexandria is notable for its scenery and beauty. Also, Isla Mujeres is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Alexandria is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The historic architecture and beautiful waterfront make this an iconic destination.

Isla Mujeres offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Beautiful beaches with white sand and blue water make this a beautiful destination. The underwater world is also spectacular to explore.

Is Isla Mujeres or Alexandria Better for Families?

Isla Mujeres is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Isla Mujeres is very family-friendly. Kids will love the outdoor sports, which include kayaking, surfing, cave exploration, and snorkeling or diving. There are also opportunities to get up close with marine life or spend the day playing at a water park.

Alexandria is not the most family-friendly destination. The waterfront area is nice to walk around. You can break up the history with an ice cream shop and kids will also enjoy taking a boat tour.

Is Isla Mujeres or Alexandria Better for Couples?

Isla Mujeres is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Alexandria is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Isla Mujeres is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's a world class honeymoon destination and couples enjoy the white powdery sand beaches, turquoise blue waters, and laid back island vibe. There's diving and snorkeling as well as romantic hotels and wonderful local restaurants.

Alexandria is a very popular place to visit for couples. The charm of the old town makes this a quaint and romantic destination. There's a waterfront area and many historic buildings. There are also romantic restaurants and plenty of places to grab brunch.

Is Isla Mujeres or Alexandria Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Isla Mujeres is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Alexandria is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Isla Mujeres. There are a handful of hostels on the island that offer budget accommodation and a social atmosphere.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Alexandria. There aren't any true hostels in town, but you will find some cheap motels.

Is Isla Mujeres or Alexandria Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Alexandria is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Isla Mujeres is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Alexandria can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. DASH is the local bus system, but the city is also connected into the Washington DC metro system.

Isla Mujeres has some public transit options. There are two bus routes around the island that are operated by Isleños Bus.

Is Isla Mujeres or Alexandria a more walkable city?

Alexandria is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Isla Mujeres is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Alexandria on foot. It's a very easy city to walk around, particularly in the historic heart where most tourists spend their time.

Isla Mujeres is a very walkable destination. The most walkable part of the island is the North part, which is the town center.

For even more information, also check out Is Isla Mujeres Worth Visiting? and Is Alexandria Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Alexandria or Isla Mujeres?

How long in Isla Mujeres or Alexandria?

It's fun to spend time in either Isla Mujeres or Alexandria. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Alexandria due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Isla Mujeres, and 2-4 days is enough time in Alexandria.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Isla Mujeres than Alexandria 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 Isla Mujeres.

One day in Isla Mujeres or Alexandria?

With shopping and nightlife around the relaxing island of Isla Mujeres, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Isla Mujeres, one day is sufficent for most.

In Alexandria, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this charming city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Isla Mujeres or Alexandria?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Isla Mujeres, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island.

Alexandria is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Isla Mujeres or Alexandria?

Isla Mujeres, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Alexandria. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Isla Mujeres or Alexandria?

Isla Mujeres is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Alexandria is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Mexico, The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, and The Best Camping Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Isla Mujeres and Alexandria, we can see that Isla Mujeres is more expensive. And not only is Alexandria much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Alexandria would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Alexandria 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 Isla Mujeres would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Isla Mujeres than you might in Alexandria.

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

Which is Bigger, Isla Mujeres or Alexandria?

Alexandria has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Isla Mujeres. When comparing the sizes of Isla Mujeres and Alexandria, 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.