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

Should you visit Isla Mujeres or Greensboro?

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 Greensboro. 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 idyllic, relaxing, and laid back island. Isla Mujeres is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Isla Mujeres travel costs.

Greensboro

Greensboro is a friendly, welcoming, and under-rated city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Greensboro travel costs.

Isla Mujeres and Greensboro: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • 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
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Isla Mujeres or Greensboro?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Isla Mujeres than Greensboro, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Isla Mujeres is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Greensboro is more popular for its museums and attractions. Isla Mujeres is more touristy than Greensboro and is known for its award-winning beaches, underwater marine life, and tranquil atmosphere. Also, Isla Mujeres is famous for the Underwater Museum of Art. Greensboro is well known for its interesting museums and diverse restaurants.

How is Isla Mujeres different from Greensboro?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Isla Mujeres
Greensboro

Greensboro is a good destination for its sights and museums. However, Isla Mujeres is a mediocre island for its museums and history.

Greensboro offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Greensboro Science Center is a highlight for families. Other interesting museums around town include the Elsewhere Modern Art Museum, the Greensboro History Museum, the International Civil Rights Center, and the Weatherspoon Art Museum.

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 Greensboro? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Isla Mujeres
Greensboro

Isla Mujeres is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Greensboro may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. You'll find a good selection of restaurants around town with Mexican, southern, Italian, and Chinese all being popular options.

Is Isla Mujeres or Greensboro Better for Nightlife?

Isla Mujeres
Greensboro

Evening events are notable in both Isla Mujeres and Greensboro.

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 Greensboro. Head downtown for the most trendy bars, breweries, and nightclubs.

Is Isla Mujeres or Greensboro Better for Resorts?

Isla Mujeres
Greensboro

Isla Mujeres is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Greensboro 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.

Greensboro is not a resort destination.


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

Isla Mujeres
Greensboro

Isla Mujeres is a must-visit destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Greensboro 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.

Greensboro is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Greensboro Better for Beaches?

Isla Mujeres
Greensboro

Isla Mujeres is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Greensboro 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.

Greensboro is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Isla Mujeres or Greensboro?

Isla Mujeres
Greensboro

Both Isla Mujeres and Greensboro are notable shopping destinations.

Isla Mujeres offers some nice shopping areas. Head downtown for the best opportunities to pick up gifts or souvenirs. You'll find local jewelry, art, and handicrafts.

Greensboro has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are shopping centers and shopping malls around town as well as some interesting local boutiques.


Is Isla Mujeres or Greensboro More Beautiful?

Isla Mujeres
Greensboro

Isla Mujeres is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Greensboro is not a destination known for its beauty.

Isla Mujeres is a beautiful place to visit, too. Beautiful beaches with white sand and blue water make this a beautiful destination. The underwater world is also spectacular to explore.

Greensboro is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Isla Mujeres or Greensboro Better for Families?

Isla Mujeres
Greensboro

Isla Mujeres is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Greensboro is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-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.

Greensboro offers lots of family activities. Kids will love visiting the Greensboro Science Center, which has hands-on science exhibits and a small zoo. Younger kids will also enjoy a visit to the Miriam P. Brenner Children’s Museum. During the summer months the Wet 'n Wild Emerald Pointe Water Park is a great way to spend a day. Other times of the year, there are indoor play spaces and movie theaters around town.

Is Isla Mujeres or Greensboro Better for Couples?

Isla Mujeres
Greensboro

Isla Mujeres is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for couples.

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.

Greensboro is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The Carolina Theater makes a great date night activity. There is also a diverse selection of restaurants around town and a few parks for a daytime outing.


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

Isla Mujeres
Greensboro

Isla Mujeres is well known for backpackers. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Isla Mujeres is a great island to visit for backpackers. There are a handful of hostels on the island that offer budget accommodation and a social atmosphere.

Greensboro is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a number of budget hotels nearby but no real hostels.

Is Isla Mujeres or Greensboro Better for Students?

Isla Mujeres
Greensboro

Greensboro is a good destination for students. However, Isla Mujeres is not popular with students.

Greensboro is a good city to visit for students. University of North Carolina at Greensboro attracts students to the city. There are also several smaller colleges in the area.

Isla Mujeres is not popular with students.

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

Isla Mujeres
Greensboro

Isla Mujeres is a good destination for its public transit. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Isla Mujeres, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are two bus routes around the island that are operated by Isleños Bus.

Public transit is mostly limited in Greensboro. There are several bus routes around town, but you really can depend on them to get where you're going. A car is important for making the most of your trip.


Is Isla Mujeres or Greensboro a more walkable city?

Isla Mujeres
Greensboro

Isla Mujeres is well known for its high level of walkability. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

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

Greensboro is generally not a very walkable island. Most areas aren't walkable, but for the most pedestrian-friendly sections head to College Hill, downtown, or Brice Street.

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

Should I spend more time in Greensboro or Isla Mujeres?

How long in Isla Mujeres or Greensboro?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Isla Mujeres or Greensboro to fill your time. In our opinion, Isla Mujeres has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Isla Mujeres than Greensboro. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Isla Mujeres than Greensboro. 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 Greensboro. 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 Greensboro 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.


  • How many days in Isla Mujeres or Greensboro? Ideal Length of Stay
    Isla Mujeres 1-2 
    Greensboro 1-2

One day in Isla Mujeres or Greensboro?

With shopping and nightlife around the laid back 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 Greensboro, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this under-rated city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Isla Mujeres or Greensboro?

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.

Greensboro is a fun place to experience. 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 Greensboro?

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 nightlife and shopping around the welcoming destination of Greensboro. 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 Greensboro?

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.

Greensboro is a popular place to visit. 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 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, Greensboro or Isla Mujeres?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Isla Mujeres Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Greensboro Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Isla Mujeres $164
    Greensboro $197

The average daily cost (per person) in Isla Mujeres is $164, while the average daily cost in Greensboro is $197. 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 Isla Mujeres and Greensboro in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Isla Mujeres $71
    Greensboro $96
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Isla Mujeres $142
    Greensboro $192
Compare Hotels in Isla Mujeres and Greensboro

Looking for a hotel in Isla Mujeres or Greensboro? 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 Isla Mujeres


Hotels in Greensboro


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: Isla Mujeres Hotel Prices and Greensboro Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Isla Mujeres $32
    Greensboro $24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Isla Mujeres

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Isla Mujeres:

  • Punta Sam / Isla Blanca to Cancún Airport (CUN)- Departure Private Transfer: $62
  • Private Transfer: Playa Mujeres to Cancun Airport CUN in SUV: $135

Is it cheaper to fly into Isla Mujeres or Greensboro?

Prices for flights to both Greensboro and Isla Mujeres 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
    Isla Mujeres $72
    Greensboro $82

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Isla Mujeres $19
    Greensboro $26

Tours and Activities in Isla Mujeres

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Isla Mujeres are as follows:

  • Chill at -18°C Isla Mujeres Ice Bar (tickets): $25
  • Excursion Crystal Boat Tour at the Caribbean: $29
  • Tour Isla Mujeres excursion in Collective Transparent Boat: $38
  • Crystal Boat Tour to Isla Mujeres and Reefs: $39
  • Isla Mujeres Snorkeling Adventure at the Underwater Museum: $52
  • Isla Mujeres Snorkeling Tour Adventure: $53
  • Snorkel Tour at Musa and Manchones Reef: $55
  • Transparent Boat Tour from Isla Mujeres: $60
  • UNDER WATER MUSEUM CANCUN SNORKEL ISLA MUJERES - Experience with Ticket: $65
  • ATV Mangrove Adventure: $65
  • Isla Mujeres Snorkeling Tour: $84
  • 3 Hours VIP Semiprivate Tour Isla Mujeres Full Snorkeling Experience : $84

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Isla Mujeres $23
    Greensboro $20


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

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 Greensboro Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Isla Mujeres or Greensboro?

Greensboro has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Isla Mujeres. When comparing the sizes of Isla Mujeres and Greensboro, 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.